Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Rafael Grossi, director-general of the United Nations’ International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), in Geneva on Monday, a day before a second round of indirect nuclear negotiations with the United States is scheduled to begin.
Araghchi and Grossi held technical discussions on Iran’s cooperation with the IAEA and other safeguards issues. Grossi described their talks as “in-depth technical discussions in preparation for important negotiations scheduled for tomorrow in Geneva.”
Araghchi has said on social media that he came to Geneva with ideas to pursue a “fair and equitable deal” but rejected pressure or demands for submission, stressing that Tehran’s position will not be dictated by threats.
The meeting with the IAEA chief comes as Iran and the U.S. prepare to resume indirect nuclear negotiations on Tuesday, with Oman again acting as an intermediary. Araghchi’s itinerary in Geneva also includes meetings with Omani and Swiss counterparts to coordinate diplomatic efforts linked to the talks.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister has signaled Tehran’s openness to compromise on its nuclear program in exchange for sanctions relief, but officials insist they will not accept conditions that eliminate enrichment entirely.
The renewed talks follow a first round in Muscat earlier this month, part of efforts to reduce long-standing tensions over Iran’s nuclear activities and avoid further escalation in the region.