“As expected, the talks didn’t herald a breakthrough but we made a start. After 14 months Iran was moved once more to engage in substantial talks. This shows the approach of the international community is right:
We remain ready to talk. However, we didn’t hesitate in reacting to a lack of readiness for dialogue and cooperation by imposing sanctions. The united stance of the international community clearly helped open the way for this new start now.
We want to continue along this path of dialogue in Istanbul in January. This shows this start we have made may evolve into a process. That is what we want. However we want progress and talks with substance – that is our goal. Iran should use this opportunity.
The international community remains determined and united and at the same time also ready to encourage Iran through dialogue to fulfil its obligations under international law.
Iran does of course have the right to use nuclear energy for civilian purposes. It of course also has the obligation to return to transparency and cooperation. For the international community it is not acceptable for Iran to acquire nuclear weapons.”
