Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi and Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) Rafael Grossi have reviewed the latest developments in the ongoing process of indirect negotiations between Iran and the United States, as diplomatic efforts continue to revive nuclear diplomacy.

During a telephone conversation held on Saturday, the two officials discussed recent progress in the indirect talks, focusing on ways to maintain momentum and advance the negotiation track. According to Iranian sources, both sides underlined the importance of constructive engagement and sustained dialogue in order to move toward a durable and mutually acceptable understanding.

The latest round of indirect nuclear negotiations between Tehran and Washington took place in Switzerland on February 17, with mediation facilitated by Oman. The talks marked the second round of discussions aimed at narrowing differences and laying the groundwork for a potential agreement.

Speaking after the conclusion of the Switzerland meeting, Araqchi described the negotiations as serious and more constructive than the previous round. He noted that the atmosphere was conducive to progress and that both sides exchanged a range of proposals intended to move the process closer to drafting a formal text.

According to the Iranian foreign minister, the delegations reached a general consensus on a set of guiding principles that would frame the next phase of negotiations. He stated that future discussions would focus on refining those principles and transitioning toward the drafting stage of a possible agreement.

The renewed diplomatic contacts come amid continued international attention to Iran’s nuclear program and efforts to ensure that it remains exclusively peaceful in nature. The involvement of the IAEA, under Grossi’s leadership, is seen as central to monitoring and verification mechanisms that would accompany any future understanding between Tehran and Washington.

While no final agreement has yet been reached, officials on both sides have signaled cautious optimism, emphasizing that sustained dialogue and incremental progress remain essential to bridging remaining gaps. (ILKHA)