Iran determined to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes:Iranian FM

TEHRAN,Dec.11(MNA) - Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Salehi said that Tehran is determined to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. Salehi made the remarks in Tehran on Sunday during a farewell meeting with the South African ambassador, Ebrahim Mohamed Saley, at the end of his diplomatic mission in Iran. Commenting on nuclear talks between Iran and world powers, he stated that it is possible to negotiate on an equal footing and noted that the Westerners have turned technical issues into political ones. The outgoing South African ambassador said that all countries have the right to use nuclear energy for peaceful purposes, adding that the Republic of South Africa supports the rights of the signatories to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty. Elsewhere in his remarks, Salehi noted that expanding relations with South Africa is high on Tehran’s agenda and called for further bilateral economic, cultural, and commercial cooperation. Ambassador Saley hailed Iran’s achievements in recent years, including the fact that Iranian villages gained access to utility services such as potable water, electricity, health services, and proper schools, and added that Iran’s experience and actions inspire South Africa. Saley also appreciated the hospitality of the Iranian people and thanked Iranian officials for their cooperation to boost bilateral ties.