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Q - The US would like the EU3 to take a tougher line towards Iran in exchange for Washington's support for an incentives package that the Europeans are trying to put together in order to persuade Iran to give up nuclear weapons. What is the response of France-the EU3-to this type of American pressure?
A - The question is not whether the line is more, or less, tough. Since the beginning of the negotiations with Iran, we've been endeavoring to dispel doubts over Iran's nuclear program by obtaining guarantees from Tehran in conformity with the international commitments it made, in exchange for which we're ready to offer this country a number of benefits in policy and security. That's the whole purpose of the negotiations we've been having with the Iranians since December on which we regularly brief our partners, including the United States. Our objective is still to obtain from the US the most pro-active and explicit support possible since that is one of the conditions for successful negotiations. The dialogue is continuing.
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Q - How would France describe the American stance regarding Europe's offer of benefits to Iran in exchange for giving up its nuclear program? Specifically, would you like Washington to be more understanding and more active on this question?
A - We've said all along that we would like to have the explicit support of all, including the United States. I gather that Washington is beginning to show greater understanding of our positions.