Oman confirms progress in Iran-US nuclear talks

Muscat: The Omani Foreign Ministry announced that Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi and US presidential envoy Steve Witkoff have consented to advance to the subsequent phase of negotiations aimed at achieving a fair, lasting, and binding resolution on Tehran's nuclear issues.

Earlier in the day, Araghchi and Witkoff engaged in indirect discussions in Rome, mediated by Omani Foreign Minister Badr Albusaidi, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

An Omani Foreign Ministry spokesperson emphasised that dialogue and transparent communication are crucial for achieving "a mutually credible agreement and understanding for the benefit of all concerned regionally and internationally."

It was also agreed that the next round of talks will be held in Muscat in the coming days.

Albusaidi expressed appreciation on the social media platform X for the spirit of cooperation shown by both parties.

"I would like to thank Iranian Foreign Minister Dr Seyed Abbas Araghchi and Presidential Envoy Mr Steve Witkoff for their highly constructive approach to the talks today. These talks are gaining momentum, and now even the unlikely is possible," he said.

The second round of nuclear negotiations between the United States and Iran commenced in Italy on Saturday, focusing on Tehran's civilian nuclear program and the lifting of American sanctions.

The talks led by the Iranian foreign minister and the US president's special envoy to the Middle East are hosted by Oman's embassy in Rome.

On Friday, during a joint press conference in Moscow with his Russian counterpart, Araghchi stated that Tehran would approach Saturday's talks with seriousness and determination, despite having “serious doubts” about the intentions of the other party.

(inputs from IANS)