Iran's top nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani and EU Foreign Policy Chief Javier Solana started talks behind closed doors here on Wednesday.

Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi, Deputy Head of the Supreme National Security Council Javad Vaeedi and Deputy Head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Mohammad Saeedi are other members of the Iranian delegation to the talks.

Larijani-Solana talks are being held following a mutual phone agreement on April 20.

In a brief press briefing prior to the talks, Larijani said, "Mr.

Solana in a phone call with me in Tehran called for continuing talks and we agreed to have a meeting in Ankara. Our stances have always been based on this and we have always welcomed precise and correct talks to solve the issue. But the other party set conditions, which practically blocked the talks."

Solana told reporters while heading for venue of the talks he have come to Ankara with a constructive stance and that he has always favored negotiations.

He hoped for progress in nuclear talks with Iran.

Larijani and Solana arrived in Ankara Wednesday for talks.