Clinton: There is Still Time for Diplomacy with Iran
U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton said Wednesday there remained time for a diplomatic solution over Iran's nuclear program but it was "urgent" for the Islamic republic to ease concerns.
Speaking at the start of talks among foreign ministers of the Group of Eight, Clinton said an upcoming meeting between Iran and major powers was "an opportunity for Iran to address seriously the international community's concerns."
"We believe there is still time for diplomacy, but it is urgent that the Iranians come to the table to establish an environment conducive to achieving concrete results through a sustained process," Clinton said.
Iran is expected to meet representatives of six powers -- Britain, China, France, Germany, Russia and the United States -- starting on Saturday in Istanbul.
The talks, which come after a break of more than a year, come as Israel and the United States ramp up pressure on Iran over its contested nuclear program.
Israeli and some Western officials accuse Iran of building a nuclear bomb, but the clerical regime says its program is for peaceful purposes.
Source: Agence France Presse
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