Russia says no need to discuss Iran sanctions now

MOSCOW, Aug 25: International concerns over Iran's nuclear programme do not warrant any discussion at the moment of sanctions against Tehran, Russian Defence Minister Sergei Ivanov said today.

Ivanov, shown on television speaking to reporters in Russia's far east, said that in any event sanctions had proved ineffective in international practice.

''Moreover, I believe that the question is not so serious at the moment for the UN Security Council or the group of six to consider any introduction of sanctions,'' Ivanov said. ''Russia stands for further political and diplomatic efforts to settle the issue.''

REUTERS