WANA (Nov 17) – Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Monday stressed the need for the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to remain committed to its technical mandate and to avoid politically motivated behavior or influence from the United States and certain European members, during a phone call with his Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov.

 

The conversation marked the second telephone exchange between the two ministers within a week and came ahead of the upcoming meeting of the IAEA Board of Governors. The call also covered the latest developments in bilateral ties as well as regional and international issues.

 

Araghchi and Lavrov had previously spoken on November 12, discussing rising tensions between Pakistan and Afghanistan and preparations for this week’s IAEA Board meeting.

 

Emphasis on the IAEA’s Technical Role

During Monday’s call, Araghchi highlighted Iran’s recent diplomatic efforts with regional counterparts and underscored the importance of continuing and accelerating regional consultations and cooperation. He reiterated that Iran has acted responsibly and constructively in its engagement with the IAEA and emphasized that the Agency must adhere strictly to its technical responsibilities while resisting political pressure from the U.S. and some European countries.

 

According to reports, the U.S. and three European states have drafted a resolution on Iran’s nuclear program ahead of the Board of Governors meeting.

 

Lavrov welcomed the formation of regional consultation frameworks and reaffirmed Russia’s readiness to maintain close coordination with Iran. He also referenced Russia’s efforts at the United Nations to uphold the principles of the UN Charter, stressing the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and rejecting any actions that would undermine their rights.

 

Coordination Ahead of IAEA Meeting

The two ministers reiterated that Iran’s nuclear activities are peaceful and agreed to coordinate their positions and joint efforts ahead of the Board of Governors meeting.

 

Araghchi and Lavrov also reviewed ongoing bilateral cooperation, including consular issues.

 

Russia’s Foreign Ministry confirmed the phone call, noting that the discussion covered recent tensions between Afghanistan and Pakistan, developments in Palestine, and matters related to Iran’s nuclear program in advance of the IAEA Board session.

WANA - IAEA