German Chancellor Angela Merkel Remarks on Meetings with U.S. President George W. Bush (Excerpts)

November 10, 2007

Weapon Program: 

  • Nuclear

Related Country: 

  • Iran

US President George W. Bush and Chancellor Angela Merkel are aiming for a diplomatic solution to the dispute over Iran's nuclear programme. Both Bush and Merkel emphasised this after several hours of talks at the US President's private ranch in Texas. Bush was open to the German suggestions regarding reform of the UN Security Council.

"The threat posed by Iran's nuclear programme is serious," said Merkel at a press conference. If the next round of talks do not produce a satisfactory solution, then sanctions under the aegis of the United Nations must be considered, declared the Chancellor.

The next steps will call for Russian and Chinese involvement, according to Merkel. Bush stressed that a diplomatic solution is possible, if Germany and many other states pull together.

By 15 December, Iran is to provide the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) with answers to all open questions regarding its nuclear programme.

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