[1]A resolution condemning Iran at the UN atomic agency on Friday will only strengthen the Islamic republic's determination to press ahead with its 'peaceful' nuclear programme, Tehran's envoy said.
"We have had resolutions, we have got used to it. We have had even Security Council resolutions and sanctions," Ali Soltanieh, Iranian ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), told reporters.
"And the only immediate effect is further strengthening the determination of the Iranian nation to continue its nuclear activities for peaceful purposes without any compromise. We will not suspend our enrichment activities even for a second. We are more determined than before after this resolution. This resolution will further strengthen the solidarity of the Iranian nation."
Earlier Friday the IAEA board of governors passed a resolution of 'deep and increasing concern' about Iran's nuclear activities tabled by the five permanent members of the UN Security Council.
Last week, the IAEA came the closest yet to accusing Iran outright of seeking to develop nuclear weapons, in a report immediately rejected by the Islamic republic as 'baseless'.
EU urges Iran to accept nuke talks offer
EU Foreign Policy Chief Catherine Ashton urged Iran Friday to accept an offer of talks on its nuclear programme, after the UN's atomic watchdog adopted a resolution speaking of its 'deep concern'.
"I urge Iran once again to respond positively to the offers and proposals made by myself, together with the E3+3," she said in a statement.
Ashton is also the negotiator for the group of six, comprising EU powers Britain, France, Germany and China, Russia and the US.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) resolution adopted in Vienna said it was "essential for Iran and the Agency to intensify their dialogue".
It called on Tehran "to comply fully and without delay with its obligations under relevant resolutions of the UN Security Council."
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[1] http://archive.asianage.com/iranjpgcropdisplayjpg-000