Jan 14 (V7N) -Iran and the European powers—Britain, France, and Germany (E3)—held "frank and constructive" discussions in Geneva on Monday regarding Tehran's nuclear program, just days before US President-elect Donald Trump is set to return to office. The second such meeting in two months focused on lifting sanctions and addressing nuclear concerns. Both sides expressed a commitment to continuing dialogue, emphasizing the importance of creating a conducive atmosphere for negotiations.

Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Majid Takht-Ravanchi and his E3 counterparts discussed a range of issues, including the acceleration of Iran's nuclear program and sanctions relief. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi described the talks as "serious" and emphasized the need for detailed negotiations. Meanwhile, the E3 reaffirmed their dedication to pursuing a diplomatic resolution despite growing challenges, including heightened concerns over Iran's nuclear advancements.

The discussions take place against a backdrop of strained relations following the US withdrawal from the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) during Trump's first term. Iran, which initially complied with the deal, has since enriched uranium to unprecedented levels, prompting fears of nuclear weapons development. The urgency to revive the deal is heightened by the impending expiration of the snapback mechanism, which allows the reimposition of UN sanctions on Iran for non-compliance.

While Tehran maintains that its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron, have warned that Iran's current trajectory risks reaching a "breaking point." President Masoud Pezeshkian and Iranian officials have expressed willingness to revive the JCPOA, advocating for a trust-building approach in exchange for lifting sanctions. However, as the October deadline looms, the road to a renewed agreement remains fraught with complexities.

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