We have tried very hard to reach agreement by 20 July. Unfortunately we have not been able to do so. Nonetheless, we agree with our E3+3 partners that it would be wrong to give up now and break off the negotiations.

We have talked very seriously over the past few months and as a result have been able to make tangible progress. However, opinions still differ markedly on some key issues. But we have gained the impression that both sides are seriously trying to reach agreement and that these differences of opinion can be overcome in the time remaining to us.

It is also clear, however, that the negotiations cannot be continued indefinitely. In the time before the Joint Plan of Action expires, Iran must show that it is willing to clear up all doubts about the peaceful nature of its nuclear programme. These few months until November could be the last and best chance for a long time to bring about a peaceful end to the nuclear dispute.