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Iran suspends talks with U.S. on Iraq

DUBAI: Iran has hardened its position towards the West by suspending talks with the U.S. on Iraq and rejecting incentives offered by six major powers to halt its uranium enrichment programme.

Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said on Monday talks with the U.S. would “make no sense” because of the bombardment of civilians in Iraq. “The focus of discussions with the U.S. is Iraq’s security and stability. We are witnessing indiscriminate bombardment of Iraqi residential areas by the U.S. forces,” said Mr. Hosseini.

Iran and the U.S. had held three rounds of discussions. Iran’s Press TV quoted Mr. Hosseini as saying Tehran was inclined to hold talks with “different” countries that could influence international relations. He added that Iran was seeking a dialogue on a “package,” which contained political, security and economic elements.

“The package is based on justice and focuses on issues in a way that will contribute to the improvement of international peace, security and stability. It also respects rights of nations and national sovereignty of countries.”

Mr. Hosseini said the Russians were already acquainted with the broad outlines of the proposals. He also rejected the incentives.

When enriched to a low level, uranium can be used to generate electricity. However, highly enriched uranium is used to make atomic warheads.

Despite Iran’s unambiguous position, French Foreign Minister Bernard Kouchner said an envoy of the six countries would visitTehran “in the coming days” and formally submit the offer.

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