Solana "more optimistic than pessimistic" on Iran

PARIS, June 8 (Reuters) European Union foreign policy chief Javier Solana today said he was "more optimistic than pessimistic" about reaching an agreement with Iran over its disputed nuclear programme.

Solana said there had been a "positive atmosphere" when he visited Tehran this week to hand over a packet of economic, technological and security incentives in return for Iran suspending work which could eventually produce atomic bombs.

"The meeting, the talks (with the Iranians) were very constructive, very positive. The atmosphere was very positive," Solana told reporters after meeting French President Jacques Chirac.

"I think they understood the content of the proposal well and I hope they will react soon," he said.

"So I'm more optimistic than pessimistic," he said.

REUTERS SI HT2258