Almanar
24/02/2010 The United States warned Iran Tuesday that "time and patience is running out" over its nuclear program, saying Tehran had shown no interest in allaying world fears. White House spokesman Robert Gibbs reiterated US warnings of "consequences" if Iran continues to develop “uranium enrichment capabilities.”
Recent pronouncements by Iranian leaders showed "they have no interest in building international confidence that their nuclear program is for peaceful means," he added.
Tehran said Monday it was considering building two more uranium enrichment plants concealed inside mountains to protect them from air strikes.
A day later, it submitted a letter to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), saying it was prepared to buy fuel for a nuclear reactor or swap its own stockpile of low-enriched uranium for the fuel, albeit on its own territory. The West has offered to make such a trade only outside Iran.
World powers, led by the US, accuse Tehran of pursuing military applications under the guise of a civilian nuclear program, although IAEA inspectors stationed in Iran have so far been unable to substantiate their claim.
State Department spokesman Philip Crowley said the latest Iranian proposal was "unacceptable." "We will continue to work within the IAEA and also consult from the international standpoint on appropriate next steps, including the prospect of sanctions," Crowley said.
"We have not closed the door to further engagement, but you have actually to have a willing partner to engage. "The fact is, Iran makes these series of statements day after day, week after week, but refuses to come to the table and actually negotiate in good faith," he added.
Meanwhile, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula Da Silva said world powers should avoid isolating Iran over its nuclear program, as it would not help secure global peace. "Peace in the world does not mean isolating someone," Lula said at a joint press conference with his Mexican counterpart Felipe Calderon on Tuesday. "I'm going to Iran in May to buy things from them," he added.
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