U.S. and Iranian senior officials say negotiations on the draft agreement are nearing a breakthrough
Iran – U.S. and Iranian senior officials said on Saturday that talks over the draft agreement are close to a breakthrough, yet remain cautious about the possibility of ending the war in the Middle East. Meanwhile, President Trump told Axios, a U.S. media outlet, on Saturday that there is a "50-50 chance" of reaching an agreement.
In an interview with CBS via phone, Trump stated that both sides are "getting closer" to an agreement, but simultaneously warned that if no deal is reached, "we will face a situation no nation has ever suffered such a heavy blow."
Iranian officials said disagreements still exist between the two sides, but Iran is finalizing a 14-point framework for the agreement, with nuclear program disputes excluded from the first round of negotiations.
Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Ismail Baghai, noted that relations between the two sides are showing a "trend toward easing," but added, "this does not necessarily mean we will reach consensus on key issues with the United States."
Baghai said on national television: "Our initial intention is to draft a memorandum of understanding—a preliminary framework containing 14 clauses."
Baghai further added that he hopes, after the preliminary framework is finalized, "within a reasonable period of 30 to 60 days," the details of the final agreement can be settled.
Source: rfi
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1866082711834752/
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