FM Official: Iran Expecting US Practical Steps, Serious Change In Attitude

Tehran, July 16, IRNA – Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Araqchi said here on Tuesday that Iran is waiting to see practical steps and serious changes in the US policies. He made the remark during his weekly press briefing when asked to comment on if the government of the president-elect Hassan Rohani, who is to take office in a few days, is to hold direct talks with the US and the UK. Tehran is to monitor the US practices before deciding to make any changes in its attitudes towards Washington, he added. He reiterated that nice rhetoric and beautiful words were certainly not enough for Iran given Tehran’s past experiences. Stressing that Iran is always eager to talk with all world countries with just a few exceptions, he said many countries including a number of western and European states have voiced their interest to hold dialogue with Iran that is a favorable development. Turning to developments in Egypt, he stressed that Iran will continue lobbying with the regional players as well as the new Egyptian statesmen on the present situation. He explained that the Iranian foreign minister had direct negotiations with his Egyptian counterpart, the interim president and other regional key players and even took a trip to Turkey to explore the issue more. He expressed hope that the situation in Egypt would be settled in a proper and peaceful manner to guarantee unity and national integrity./end