Iran and the P5+1 have taken a historic step in laying down the foundations of a final negotiated settlement to the Iranian nuclear dispute. The South African government gives its full encouragement and support to the negotiators in the weeks ahead as they work to conclude a comprehensive agreement by 30 June 2015.

South Africa has consistently recognized Iran’s inalienable right to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes in line with the provisions of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT).

South Africa has always maintained that the dispute over the Iranian nuclear programme should be resolved peacefully. The successful agreement on a political framework once again demonstrates that diplomacy and negotiations are the only way to find sustainable solutions to international conflicts. A successful resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue will also provide a major boost to the efforts to reverse the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East.

Available: http://www.dirco.gov.za/docs/2015/iran0408.htm