Iran to further clarify civilian use of nuclear plan in talks with powers

Iran does not expect a comprehensive accord with the world powers in the upcoming nuclear talks, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif said on Sunday. "For sure, this round of talks with the P5+1 group is more serious than the previous talks, but we do not expect an agreement, " Zarif told reporters after a meeting with visiting Belarusian Foreign Minister Vladimir Makei. In the new round of talks in Vienna on Monday and Tuesday, "we will discuss peaceful dimensions of Iran's nuclear program, including uranium enrichment and Arak heavy water facility," he said. The Iranian minister reiterated that Iran will not stop any part of its nuclear program, saying that "Iran's nuclear program is a reality and this reality will not change," official IRNA news agency reported. "We are ready to build confidence that our nuclear program will remain peaceful," he was quoted as saying. The West has urged Iran to take further steps beyond the commitments under the interim nuclear deal to prove its nuclear activities are for civilian use. On Sunday, Iranian lawmakers issued a statement which asked the country's nuclear negotiators to avoid discussions over Iran's defense issues, including the country's missile program, in the talks with powers. They also warned against further "restrictions" on the nuclear program of the Islamic republic. The two sides are expected to meet again on Monday to hammer out a final agreement.