Crucial Talks Anticipated Between U.N. Nuclear Watchdog and Iran

Rafael Grossi, the head of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, aims to discuss Iran's nuclear cooperation with new Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian by November. Key issues include Iran's uranium enrichment and barring of inspectors. Grossi hopes the talks will pave the way for constructive dialogue and significant progress.

Rafael Grossi, the chief of the U.N. nuclear watchdog, announced on Monday his intention to hold talks with Iran's newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, by November. This initiative is aimed at improving Tehran's cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

Persistent issues, such as the barring of uranium-enrichment experts and unexplained uranium traces at undeclared Iranian sites, continue to strain relations between Iran and the IAEA. Grossi stated during a quarterly meeting of the agency's 35-nation Board of Governors that Pezeshkian has agreed to meet at an appropriate time following his July election.

Grossi stressed the urgency of the meeting, especially with nuclear diplomacy at a standstill between the Iranian and U.S. presidential elections. Despite IAEA resolutions demanding Iran's cooperation and an investigation into uranium traces, recent reports indicate minimal progress.

(With inputs from agencies.)