Russia wants changes to UN draft on Iran - Ifax

Moscow, May 6 : Russia wants changes to be made to a draft United Nations resolution that orders Iran to curb its nuclear ambitions, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Kislyak was today quoted as saying.

Kislyak said the draft resolution, prepared by Britain and France and backed by the United States and Germany, needed ''major alterations'', Interfax news agency reported.

''Consultations are only just starting and this is a diplomatic process, not for the press.'' The question of how to deal with Iran's nuclear ambitions is at the centre of intense diplomacy between the world's major powers.

Iran maintains it has a right to nuclear energy and that its activities are not aimed at producing weapons. The United States says Iran is using its energy programme as a cover to develop a nuclear bomb.

Russia, a veto-wielding member of the UN Security Council, says it is unclear whether Iran has, or is seeking to acquire, the technology to produce nuclear weapons.

Russia and China yesterday opposed key provisions in the draft resolution. They object to the use of Chapter 7 of the UN Charter, which allows for sanctions and even military action, though a separate resolution is required to specify either step.

Reuters

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