Iran's Atomic Energy Organization (IAEO) has requested safety aid for its Arak nuclear plant to produce isotopes for hospitals.

According to Charter of International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the agency is obliged to offer technical assistance to the member states which need safety aid for their nuclear reactors.

An official said that Iran asked for IAEA technical assistance for humanitarian reason and protection of environment.

"The agency should fulfill its duty as per Iranian request," he said.

"All the member states of Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) usually request safety aid from the specialized agency and Iran has made such a request for its research reactor in Arak".

Asked whether it is possible for IAEA to withhold technical assistance for safety standard of Iranian reactor, he said that it is an obligation for the agency as per its Charter.

"A major part of IAEA's annual budget is provided by the member states and the safety aid is part of the technical assistance the agency should provide for the states that are signatories to NPT and Safeguards Agreement of IAEA."