IAEA Director General Mohamed ElBaradei today spoke to reporters about the latest developments in the IAEA′s work to verify Iran′s nuclear program. He said it was the first time that Iran had agreed on a work plan to address all outstanding issues, with a defined timeline, which "was an important step in the right direction."
The Director General spoke to the representatives of the press during a break in the meeting of the IAEA′s 35 Member Board of Governors, meeting in Vienna this week, on issues of nuclear verification, safety and security and the peaceful use of nuclear technologies.
Dr. ElBaradei said he hoped that conditions could soon be created to make it possible for negotiations between Iran and all relevant parties.
He repeated his call for a "double time-out" of all enrichment-related activities and of sanctions, to provide a breathing space for negotiations to be resumed.
"The earlier we move from confrontation and distrust, to dialogue and confidence-building, the better for Iran and for the international community," the Director General said.