Ex-Diplomat Advocates Foreign Nuclear Investment as Key Trust-Building Strategy
Tehran, IRNA – A former senior diplomat has put forth a compelling suggestion for foreign investment in Iran’s nuclear industry as a practical means to foster trust and ensure the peaceful nature of Tehran’s nuclear program.
In an interview with IRNA, Mohsen Baharvand emphasized that a viable guarantee, assuming goodwill from Western nations, would be to invest in Iran’s nuclear sector. He articulated that if foreign partners, especially from Europe, genuinely fear potential weaponization, “the most honest proposal” would be to collaborate with Iran through technological cooperation and joint reactor projects.
Baharvand pointed out that:
- Iran asserts it does not seek nuclear weapons.
- Europe maintains that Iran should not possess them.
He argued that mutual cooperation on peaceful initiatives, such as utilizing Iranian uranium for fuel and developing reactors, would clarify the nature of Iran’s intentions.
While acknowledging potential domestic sensitivities regarding foreign involvement, particularly from the United States, Baharvand noted that President Masoud Pezeshkian has shown no objection to investments from American private firms. He stated, “The nuclear sector in the U.S. is largely private. If Washington lifts legal restrictions, there is a path forward.”
Additionally, he highlighted that Iran’s uranium enrichment program aims to acquire peaceful nuclear technologies, stressing that the country may still be in the research and development phase for several applications. He proposed, “But if someone comes and invests, provides technology, and helps in this field, it can ensure Iran’s uranium is only used for peaceful purposes.”
Baharvand further suggested that joint investments would not only enhance mutual trust but also create both economic and technological benefits for all parties involved. He asserted that a joint venture could strengthen any potential agreement with the United States.
To date, Tehran and Washington have engaged in three rounds of indirect negotiations mediated by Oman regarding Iran’s nuclear program, with both sides describing the talks as constructive and positive.
