Today the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency, the IAEA, has once again turned its attention to the Iranian nuclear issue.

Once again, Iran has not taken the hand extended to it by the Europeans and their principal partners, notably Russia.

I regret this, as I regretted last Friday in Vienna, during the European meeting with Mr. Laridjani, that an agreement was unable to be reached.

There remains a full-fledged crisis of trust in the nature and objectives of the Iranian program. The latest report by the IAEA director general underscores the international community's reasons for concern with respect to this program.

The time has now come as we decided with our European colleagues, along with the Americans, the Russians and the Chinese in London this past January for the UN Security Council to play a full role and to come to the support of the IAEA action.

Let me repeat quite clearly: No one is denying Iran's legitimate right, like that of all other States, to nuclear energy for peaceful purposes. But Iran must respect its international obligations and make the gestures needed to rebuild trust. Once again, I ask Iran to accept the complete suspension of all activities relating to enrichment and reprocessing, including research and development.

France will assume its responsibilities in the Security Council. It will do so out of concern for preserving the unity of the international community, but also with the resolve to remain firm in the face of any proliferation risks. I personally remain convinced that solutions exist, as long as a sincere, honest dialogue can be established. In the coming days, France will strive to ensure that the voice of reason and peace prevail.