Russian Security Official In Tehran For Nuclear Talks

Igor Ivanov (file photo) (CTK) 12 November 2005 -- Russian Security Council Secretary Igor Ivanov met today with Iranian nuclear officials to discuss Russia's role in helping Tehran develop nuclear-power plants.

Ivanov rejected reports that he came with a proposal from the European Union to resolve a dispute with Iran over the nuclear-development program.

The EU has been negotiating with Iran about its nuclear plans trying to persuade Tehran to halt its uranium-enrichment program and agree to open its nuclear facilities to international inspectors.

Iran faces a U.S.-led threat of referral to the UN Security Council for possible sanctions due to Tehran's failure to convince the international community that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes.

Ivanov said his country wanted to help Iran and the EU return to the negotiating table and avoid further tensions.

Ivanov is scheduled to meet with President Mahmud Ahmadinejad, Foreign Minister Manucher Mottaki, and other senior figures before ending his visit on 13 November.

(Reuters/dpa)