USA‑Iran nuclear talks resume in Rome amid diplomatic efforts
The second round of USA-Iran talks concerning the Iranian nuclear programme is set to take place in Rome on Saturday. The initial round was conducted a week earlier in Oman. The Omani Foreign Minister, Badr al-Busaidi, serving as a mediator, has arrived in the Eternal City.
The talks in Rome coincide with the visit of American President J.D. Vance, who has arrived with his family in the Italian capital.
Second round of USA-Iran talks on nuclear issues
Following the first round of negotiations, the White House stated that the meeting between the American special envoy, Steve Witkoff, and the Iranian Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, marked progress towards an agreement. However, no further details were disclosed.
The meeting in Muscat on 12th April was the first high-level contact between the two sides in eight years. It was conducted indirectly, with both parties in separate rooms, and messages were relayed by the Omani Foreign Minister, Badr al-Busaidi. It is not yet clear in what format the round in Rome will be held.
It is noteworthy that President Donald Trump, during his first term in the White House, withdrew the USA from the agreement concluded in 2015 between Iran and the world powers. This agreement saw sanctions on Iran being eased in exchange for Tehran's commitment to limiting its nuclear programme. Trump subsequently reinstated harsh American sanctions.
Since then, Iran has significantly exceeded the uranium enrichment limits. The West accuses Tehran of attempting to acquire nuclear weapons, as indicated by uranium enrichment levels surpassing civilian requirements.
Mediator: Oman
After the first round of talks, there was a proposal for the next round to be held in Rome, which was embraced by the Italian government.
On Friday, the Italian Foreign Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Antonio Tajani, met with the mediator, Omani Foreign Minister Badr al-Busaidi, who previously explained that Rome was chosen for "logistical reasons."
Minister Tajani assured that Italy fully supports Oman's mediation. He also expressed optimism that the talks would significantly accelerate negotiations between the US administration and the Iranian government towards a diplomatic resolution. He added that stabilisation across the Middle East is essential.
