Talks between Ban Ki-moon and Iranian leader focus on nuclear, Afghan issues

Iran’s nuclear programme, the situation in neighbouring Afghanistan and reform of the United Nations system were the focus of talks today between Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad at UN Headquarters in New York.

Mr. Ban “acknowledged Iran’s engagement in favour of peace and security in Afghanistan,” according to a readout of this afternoon’s meeting between the two leaders provided by the Secretary-General’s spokesperson.

While he underlined Iran’s interest in regional peace and security, the Secretary-General urged the country to comply fully with the work plan it recently reached with the UN International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and to contribute towards the implementation of the relevant Security Council resolutions regarding its nuclear activities.

The readout stated that Mr. Ahmadinejad also raised the issue of UN reform, including its decision-making processes, as well as the work of UN agencies.

The Iranian President invited Mr. Ban to visit Tehran, and the Secretary-General said he would do so at the earliest opportune moment.