On June 18 (local time), Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei affirmed that Tehran is ready to engage in dialogue with the US on its nuclear program, but will not accept conditions that it considers affecting Iran's core interests.
In a speech to the nation, Mr. Khamenei emphasized that resuming contacts does not mean concession. According to him, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has pledged that the negotiating delegation will defend Tehran's position if Washington makes requests that exceed the limits that Iran can accept.
The above statement was made in the context of the US and Iran preparing for discussions on the implementation of the agreement just reached between the two sides after months of tension.
Previously, a source from the Swiss Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that the US and Iran are expected to hold preliminary talks at the Buergenstock resort (Switzerland) on June 19.
The exchanges are expected to focus on implementing the contents agreed upon in the agreement between Washington and Tehran.
However, according to Iran's Tasnim news agency, Iranian officials have not yet made a final decision on sending a delegation to Switzerland to participate in dialogue with the US.
In recent days, many Iranian officials have repeatedly affirmed that the country is ready to pursue a diplomatic solution, but will not give up the interests and rights that Tehran considers to belong to it, especially related to the civilian nuclear program.
Khamenei's statement is seen as a signal that Iran still maintains a cautious stance before the upcoming negotiations, and also wants to affirm that any progress in relations with the US must be based on the principle of respecting the interests of both sides.
