Rowhani vows to defend Iran’s nuclear rights

The Iranian administration will defend the Islamic Republic’s nuclear rights and work to end international sanctions that have devastated its economy, Iran’s president said ahead of the new round of nuclear talks due to begin on Wednesday.

Hassan Rowhani’s remarks were seen as part of his efforts to defuse claims by hard-liners that he has given too many concessions to the West in return for too little, according to The Associated Press.

“Without a doubt, nuclear power is our definite right,” Rowhani said during a ceremony in Tehran marking the 25th anniversary of the death of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomenei, the founder of the Islamic Republic.

“Resorting to unity and resistance, we will defend interests of Iranian nation,” Rowhani added.

Under the interim deal signed in November, Iran agreed to cap its nuclear activities in return for an easing of sanctions by the West.

The six world powers suspect Tehran is seeking atomic weapons, but Iran denies the charge saying its aims are peaceful.

The next high-level talks aimed at finalizing a deal will be held later this month.

(With AP)