WANA (Apr 08) – The Iranian Foreign Minister stated: “The reason we have chosen indirect negotiations is because any negotiation where one side tries to impose its points through pressure and threats is essentially dictation, and we do not believe in such an approach. Indirect negotiations can guarantee a genuine and effective dialogue. This is the path we will follow, and we will not accept any other form of negotiation.”

 

Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, Iran’s Foreign Minister, who had arrived in Algiers to meet with Algerian officials, told reporters about the objectives and significance of his trip: “Iran and Algeria share longstanding and solid relations with deep roots. The friendship between our two countries has a long history, and our Algerian friends have always stood by the Islamic Republic of Iran during critical historical moments. They have taken positive steps towards improving the situation in the region. We also share common positions on regional issues, especially Algeria’s strong and noteworthy stance on Palestine.”

 

He continued: “We have always consulted one another regarding regional issues. I have had either in-person or phone conversations with the honorable Foreign Minister of Algeria on various occasions. Our bilateral cooperation is progressing at a relatively satisfactory level, and naturally, we continue our consultations periodically. My visit is primarily for that purpose.”

 

In response to questions regarding the recent news about indirect negotiations between senior delegations of Iran and the United States in Oman, Araghchi said: “As previously announced and as I mentioned in a tweet last night, the negotiations will take place on Saturday in Oman. These talks will be held indirectly, and we do not accept any other method of negotiation.”

 

Providing more details about the format of the upcoming talks, he stated: “The format of negotiations, whether direct or indirect, is not the most important issue in my opinion. What truly matters is the effectiveness of the talks, the seriousness and intentions of both parties, and their willingness to reach an agreement. We consider the format of negotiations to be dependent on various factors, which is why we have opted for indirect talks.”

 

Araghchi added: “The reason for this choice is that negotiations conducted through pressure and threats are, in reality, an act of dictation—and we reject that approach. Indirect negotiations can facilitate a genuine and effective exchange. That is the path we will follow.”

 

The Foreign Minister emphasized that this type of negotiation is not unusual: “This format has been used many times throughout the history of international relations. There are countries that, for historical or other reasons, refuse to negotiate directly. For instance, negotiations between Russia and Ukraine are currently taking place indirectly through the United States, because the two sides are unwilling to meet face-to-face. Hence, a third party mediates.”

 

He continued: “In the case of Iran and the United States, Oman is acting as the intermediary. We trust Oman due to its positive track record and hope that the other side demonstrates a serious will to reach a diplomatic solution. That is what really matters in these negotiations.”

 

When asked whether the first round of talks would be indirect but later shift to direct negotiations, he replied: “We have made no such arrangement.”

 

Regarding the content of the upcoming negotiations between Iran and the U.S., Araghchi stated: “Naturally, everyone may speculate or voice their own desires about the topics. What the Zionist regime’s officials have suggested—referring to the Libya negotiation model—is just wishful thinking and will never happen. We are pursuing the interests of the Iranian people, and our nuclear program is entirely peaceful and legitimate. UN Security Council Resolution 2231 affirms the legitimacy of our program, so there is no international ambiguity about it.”

 

He added: “If there are any questions or ambiguities, we are ready to clarify. We are confident in the peaceful nature of our program and have no issue with further transparency, unless it imposes restrictions or hinders Iran’s goals. In exchange for building trust, it is only fair that the unjust sanctions placed on Iran due to false accusations be lifted.”

 

Araghchi emphasized: “Our main objective in these negotiations is to secure the rights of the Iranian people and remove sanctions. If the other side truly has the will, this goal is achievable—regardless of whether the negotiations are direct or indirect. At the moment, we prefer indirect talks and have made no plans to switch to direct talks, as we don’t find direct talks useful for achieving our goals. If the other side comes to Oman with genuine will and determination, an agreement is within reach. As the saying goes, ‘the ball is in America’s court.’”

 

When asked if there were any preconditions for the upcoming talks, he responded: “We do not accept any preconditions.”

 

At the end, Araghchi confirmed: “Based on the information we have, Steve Whitkoff will be present on behalf of the United States, and I will represent Iran.”