Egypt Steps In to Mediate between Iran, IAEA
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – The foreign minister of Egypt has accelerated efforts to mend ties between Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency following Tehran’s decision to downgrade cooperation with the UN nuclear agency, which remained silent on the Israeli and US strikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
The Foreign Ministry of Egypt announced on Wednesday that Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty had held separate telephone conversations with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi and IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi on August 12.
The ministry said the calls were part of Egypt's efforts at de-escalation of tensions in the region, resumption of cooperation between Iran and the IAEA, and return to negotiations on the Iranian nuclear program in support of the political and diplomatic process.
In the conversation with Araqchi, Abdelatty emphasized the importance of adhering to diplomatic paths and creating the necessary conditions for resuming cooperation with the IAEA, which would contribute to strengthening mutual trust and creating a favorable climate for achieving regional security and stability, the statement said.
Abdelatty also held talks with Grossi about the latest developments in the Iranian nuclear file.
The Egyptian diplomat was reportedly briefed on the assessment of a recent visit by the IAEA's deputy director general to Tehran and the ways to restore confidence between the UN nuclear agency and Iran and resume cooperation between them.
Abdelatty also discussed ways to support cooperation, in the field of peaceful use of nuclear energy, between the IAEA and regional countries, in a way that would enhance the agency's role in maintaining regional and international security and stability, the ministry said.
