Barack Obama: 'I've spoken to President Rouhani of Iran'

Описание: The presidents of the US and Iran held their first direct talks in more than 30 years, as both countries signalled a new willingness to work together to solve the decade-long deadlock over Iran's nuclear programme.

After speaking on the phone with Iranian President Rouhani, Mr Obama said that he believed the US and Iran could reach a comprehensive solution over Iran's nuclear program.

"I reiterated to President Rouhani what I said in New York. While there will surely be important obstacles to moving foward and success is by no means guaranteed, I believe we can reach a comprehensive solution," the president said.

Mr Obama said he and President Rouhani have both directed their teams to work quickly to pursue an agreement.

He said the US will coordinate closely with its allies, including Israel, which considers an Iranian nuclear weapon capability to be an existential threat.

Mr Obama said the conversation shows the possibility of moving forward.

"The very fact that this was the first communication between an American and Iranian president since 1979 underscores the deep mistrust between our countries but it also indicates the prospect of moving beyond that difficult history. I do believe that there is a basis for a resolution," he said.

Saying that both sides "have significant concerns that will have to be overcome," Mr Obama underscored that the US has a "responsibility to pursue diplomacy and a unique opportunity to make progress with the new leadership in Tehran."


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