Moscow is proposing to set up a special Russian-US working group to resolve US concern about cooperation between Russia and Iran. Russian foreign minister Igor Ivanov said Russia was cooperating with Iran in nuclear technologies, but exclusively for peaceful purposes. Construction of Bushehr was under the IAEA's control.
US officials said Moscow had stonewalled US negotiators by demanding proof that Iran was conducting a programme to develop weapons of mass destruction. Ivanov said Russia would continue work on Bushehr unless the USA can back up its charges with evidence.
Russia agreed to supply fuel for Bushehr, on condition that it is returned to Russia for reprocessing. Iran has signed all international agreements on non-proliferation of nuclear materials, and claims that it is honouring all its commitments.
TablesRegional breakdown of electricity production
