ISLAMABAD: Ishaq Dar says Iran will reduce uranium enrichment under ongoing US-Iran nuclear talks.
He made the statement in an interview with Al-Arabiya and Al-Hadath. He said both sides are working through three technical groups on nuclear issues, frozen assets, and Lebanon.
Dar said Iran will keep enriched uranium stored underground while lowering enrichment levels. He added that the United States originally demanded removal of Iran’s uranium stockpile. However, both sides now agreed on a compromise that allows Iran to retain the material under strict conditions.
He also said sanctions on Iranian oil and petrochemicals have eased. In addition, he said authorities lifted a naval blockade and released some frozen assets. He noted that several regional countries, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Egypt, and the UAE, support the talks.
On maritime routes, Dar said the Strait of Hormuz will remain open for 60 days. Ships will pay only standard navigation fees. He also said China supports the arrangement.
Dar described the current phase as the most difficult stage of negotiations. However, he said both sides can still reach a final agreement within 60 days, with possible extensions.
He also said Pakistan helped bring the United States and Iran back to direct talks after 47 years.
