Iran's envoy to Moscow says Tehran keen to restart nuclear talks

Asked if Iran would consider a freeze on its uranium enrichment activities if the negotiations resumed, the ambassador, Gholamreza Ansari, replied: "I am certain that Iran is ready for talks to begin as soon as possible, all issues can be discussed during these negotiations," RIA Novosti reported.

The Islamic republic has turned down a package of incentives offered by those six world powers - the United States, Russia, China, Britain, France and Germany - on condition that all enrichment activities cease.

The United States and its U.N. Security Council allies, Britain and France, have drafted a text that would impose limited sanctions on Iran for its defiance.

But Moscow and Beijing remain reluctant to impose punishments on Tehran, an economic and strategic partner. Iran has shown no willingness to compromise despite numerous rounds of talks with the European Union. The Associated Press

/The International Herald Tribune/