Indirect talks between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America have commenced in the Omani capital, Muscat.
According to the Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA), the Iranian delegation is headed by Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, while the US side is led by President Biden’s Middle East envoy, Steve Whiticoff.
In an official statement, the Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said that “Iran has chosen the framework of the talks –— a sign of “diplomatic rationality”.”
Araghchi, who is leading Iran’s delegation, praised Oman’s regional role and thanked it for hosting the talks. “Hosting the indirect Iran-US talks is a sign of [Oman’s] responsible approach to regional issues,” he said, according to the Iran’s Foreign Ministry statement.
The ministry said Araghchi shared Tehran’s negotiating positions with al-Busaidi, who is expected to relay them to the American side. Al-Busaidi, for his part, described the Iran-Oman relationship as “excellent” and thanked Iran for choosing Muscat as the venue.
Araghchi pointed out Iran is aiming for a balanced outcome in its indirect talks with the United States.
“Our intention is to reach a fair and dignified agreement from an equal footing,” Araghchi told reporters in Muscat.
He added that progress depends on the approach of the US delegation, which is being led by President Donald Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff.
“If the other side has entered with the same mindset, there is a chance for an initial understanding that could lead to a negotiation path,” Araghchi said.
The foreign minister also said the parties could agree on the structure of talks if there is enough political will. “If there is sufficient will, we can decide on a timeline for negotiations,” Araghchi noted.
Speaking after a meeting with Omani Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi in Muscat on Saturday, Aragchi said that if the US has sufficient resolve, the two sides can decide on a timetable for the talks.
“Our intention is to reach a fair and dignified agreement from a position of equality,” he said.
The foreign minister said that if the other side comes to the negotiating table with the same attitude, there will be a chance for a preliminary understanding that would mark a path for continued negotiations.
He also said that the delegates accompanying him are experts who have extensive experience in negotiating.
