Iran wants talks over nuclear standoff

TEHRAN: Iran's chief nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani said on Tuesday Iran was ready to start what he called "serious" talks with the six world powers about their offer to defuse a nuclear standoff with the West from Aug. 23.   

Larijani was quoted by Iran's student news agency ISNA as saying Tehran was ready for talks during a meeting with envoys of the six nations to hand over Iran's reply to the offer.   

"Although there is no justification for the other parties' illegal move to refer Iran's case to the Security Council ... the answer was prepared ... to pave the way for fair talks," he said.

"Iran is prepared to hold serious talks from Aug. 23."   

He said Iran was ready to play a "constructive" role regarding all issues in the package.   

"The representatives of the six world powers should return to talks to reach an understanding about all the issues mentioned in the offer, including nuclear issues, long-term technical and economic cooperation as well as security cooperation in the region," Larijani said.   

One European diplomat said: "The answer was handed over. It is a comprehensive answer. The Iranian side said they would welcome a continuation of negotiations."   

Other diplomats would not immediately comment on the contents of the reply.   

"They (Iranians) have handed over the response and we have sent it back to capitals," another Western diplomat said.