Iran nuclear talks hit snag, Iran wanted to install additional "IR-2m" modified versions of second-generation centrifuges.(JPost).
UNITED NATIONS - Negotiations between Iran and six world powers on implementing a landmark November deal to freeze parts of Tehran's nuclear program in exchange for easing some sanctions have run into problems over the issue of centrifuge research, diplomats said.
Among the issues to be resolved in political discussions due to begin in Geneva later this week is that of research and development of a new model of advanced nuclear centrifuge that Iran says it has installed, diplomats said on condition of anonymity.
"As part of the (Nov. 24) agreement, Iran is permitted to engage in R&D (research and development), but that is tempered by the fact that it is prohibited to install new centrifuges, except as required by wear and tear," the first diplomat said.
Western diplomats said they were uncomfortable with the idea of Iran pressing ahead with the development of more advanced centrifuges. But Iran says centrifuge research is crucial.
In December, Al-Monitor, a news website focusing on the Middle East, cited a former US official as saying Iran had notified the six powers it wanted to install additional "IR-2m" centrifuges, modified versions of second-generation machines. The website also said the former US official suggested this may have played a role in the dispute.
But diplomats now say Iran has told the six countries it wants to press ahead with the development of even more advanced centrifuges than the IR-2m.
Iran is already testing several different new, more efficient centrifuge models at its Natanz research facility, according to the UN nuclear watchdog. Iran's statements last month that it was testing a new advanced centrifuge have not made clear whether it is an entirely new model or a modified version of an installed one.Hmmm......You think the 'refueling' now at Bushehr has anything to do with it?Read the full story here.
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