Vienna: Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (I.A.E.A.) Rafael Grossi insists that diplomacy remains the only viable path to address the ongoing concerns surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. Grossi made this assertion during his introductory statement at the I.A.E.A. Board of Governors meeting held in Vienna.

According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Grossi urged Iran to fully and effectively cooperate with the I.A.E.A. He emphasized that without Iran’s assistance in resolving the outstanding safeguards issues, the agency would be unable to assure that Iran’s nuclear activities are solely peaceful, despite Iran’s history of cooperation with the I.A.E.A.

The meeting, attended by representatives from the 35 member states of the Board of Governors, commenced on Monday and is scheduled to continue until Friday. It marks the quarterly gathering of the board to discuss pressing matters related to global nuclear activities.

In its latest assessment, the I.A.E.A. reported that Iran has over 400 kilograms of uranium enriched up to 60 percent, nearing the 90 percent enrichment level required for developing atomic weapons. Iran has criticized the report, labeling it as ‘political’ and attributing its conclusions to pressure from European nations.

Nonetheless, Grossi remains convinced that the resolution lies in a diplomatic approach, supported by a robust I.A.E.A. verification framework. He urged both the United States and Iran to exert maximum effort to ensure the success of their indirect negotiations, aiming for a peaceful resolution to the nuclear issue.