Ahmadinejad: Iran waiting for West's positive steps

TEHRAN (ISNA)-Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said the country is waiting for the West's positive steps in nuclear issue.

He said the Islamic Republic of Iran is ready to hold talks on 20-percent uranium enrichment, adding, "Building trust is a mutual issue and we have to see what the other side is going to do. We are ready for cooperation if a positive step is taken in this regard. We hope good steps will be taken in Moscow talks."

Also regarding Syrian issue, he said, "The strategy of the Islamic Republic of Iran on Syria and other countries is respect fundamental rights of people. All people should have access to freedom, experience respect and justice and run their own country."

Iranian President continued interference of foreigners in domestic affairs of other countries is a problem in reforms in the countries and said, "Unfortunately, interference of foreigners and particularly NATO members which pour weapons to regional countries has made the situation more complicated."

"Interests of foreign powers do not allow agreement in Syria. Unfortunately interests of foreign powers have been mixed with the process of reforms and do not allow the agreement reach in Syria," Iranian President added.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran does not seek interference in affairs of other countries and tries to make views closer to pave the way for talks," he told Frankfurt daily.

Also regarding Iran's current role in Syria, Ahmadinejad said, "The Islamic Republic of Iran is present in all countries even in the US and Europe, but it is a cultural, humane and political presence which seeks peace and mutual understanding in all parts of the world."

"The Islamic Republic of Iran does not have military presence in any country. It exchanges information with over 100 countries and there are many countries receiving military training from Iran, but this is a normal issue for many countries."

Also regarding Iran's suggestions for Syria, he said, "Iran has some offers to fix problems in many countries including Libya, Bahrain and Syria. But the atmosphere created by NATO currently is not a rational and logical one for holding talks. It is a unilateral climate which only seeks expansion of domination."

Also regarding talks on Iran's nuclear issue, he said, "The position of the Islamic Republic of Iran is clear. We believe that rights and law should be obeyed fairly."

"The Islamic Republic of Iran has good suggestions for cooperation and creating mutual confidence and we hope forward steps be taken in Moscow talks," Ahmadinejad added.

Also regarding Iran's refusal to allow inspection of Parchin site to the IAEA inspectors, he said, "Nuclear energy has over 16 applications and can be used mainly in medicine.

Today, major amount of enriched uranium in Iran is used for development of drug and Bushehr nuclear power plant as well. There is no agreement between Iran and the agency on inspecting Parchin nuclear site."

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