Iran says US talks continue previous process, will address sanctions

Iran’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Friday that the fifth round of indirect nuclear talks with the United States is a continuation of negotiations that began in April and will address recent US sanctions.

“It is natural that every round has its own sensitivities, especially in light of contradictory statements by US officials and the new wave of sanctions imposed on the Islamic Republic,” Baghaei told Iranian state media in Rome.

He said the Iranian delegation, led by the foreign minister, is committed to defending Iran’s rights at the talks.

“I must emphasize that the delegation of the Islamic Republic of Iran is seriously and firmly fighting for the rights of our country — for the peaceful use of nuclear energy and the lifting of brutal sanctions."