Russia, Iran push diplomatic path on nuclear program at SCO talks

Russian and Iranian foreign ministers met in China to discuss the nuclear issue, emphasizing diplomacy as the only path forward while reaffirming Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear development.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met in Tianjin, China, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) foreign ministers’ summit. Their discussions focused on the ongoing crisis surrounding Iran’s nuclear program.

According to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, both sides reaffirmed the need to resolve the nuclear issue solely through political and diplomatic means, in line with international law. The ministers also agreed to maintain dialogue at various levels moving forward.

Speaking at a press conference after the meeting, Lavrov emphasized that no solid evidence has ever been presented proving Iran possesses nuclear weapons. He also underscored every nation’s right to enrich uranium for peaceful energy use and noted continued engagement with international partners to safeguard these rights through diplomacy.

Lavrov added that SCO member states support Iran’s peaceful nuclear ambitions. When asked about potential Russian assistance in repairing Iranian facilities damaged in U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on 13 June, Lavrov said no such request had been made by Tehran.

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