Iran’s Ahmadinejad welcomes Brazilian mediation with West over nuclear fuel deal
By APWednesday, May 5, 2010
Iran welcomes Brazil mediation over nuclear issue
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad welcomes mediation by Brazil in a nuclear deal with the West.
The president’s website said late Tuesday that Ahmadinejad “in principle” approves of Brazil having a role in reviving the U.N.-backed deal to exchange nuclear fuel for Iran’s stock of enriched uranium.
Tehran last year rejected the deal, which would curb Iran’s ability to make nuclear weapons, but is now trying to return it to the table.
Brazil’s potential role was mentioned during a recent visit to Tehran by Brazilian foreign minister but it’s unclear if there is an official proposal on it.
The website says Ahmadinejad spoke about it over the telephone with Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.
The West accuses Iran of seeking to build a nuclear weapon. Tehran denies the charge.
