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"I hope what we will see today is the beginnings of a sustained process," said Catherine Ashton. The EU foreign policy chief's chairing the meeting. She showed where she stands, adding:Talks are intended "to find ways in which we can build confidence between us and ways in which we can demonstrate that Iran is moving away from a nuclear weapons program." Resolution depends "on what Iran is putting on the table today."
Iran's a Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) signatory. It complies fully with provisions. No evidence suggests a nuclear weapons program or hostile intent against neighbors. Istanbul participants know it.
Iran wants good faith discussions. So do Russia and China. Washington's the main obstacle. It prefers confrontation, not peace and stability.
Nonetheless, Iran agreed to participate despite little hope hardline Western views will soften. In Washington on Thursday, G8 foreign ministers said:
"Iran's persistent failure to comply with its obligations.... and to meet the requirements of the IAEA Board of Governors resolutions is a cause of urgent concern."
That shows what Tehran's up against. It fully complies, far more than other nations. Instead of credit, it's criticized. Expect little or no change in Istanbul.
On April 12, Haaretz writers Avi Issacharoff and Amos Harel headlined, "Waiting for a meltdown ahead of Iran talks," saying:
"Don't get your hopes up" for dramatic breakthroughs. Expecting something different this time forgets we've been through this exercise before. Past meetings ended at square one. Little more's likely this time. Even optimists believe little at best will be accomplished.
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