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Question: The discussion of the Iranian nuclear programme (INP) continues in Vienna. John Kerry is due there tomorrow for talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Catherine Ashton. Another round of the Six at the level of political directors is also expected to take place. Does this imply a “brain storm” that could bring the parties to an agreement on the settlement of the INP by 24 November?

Sergey Lavrov: We are doing all we can to achieve an early and comprehensive agreement on the Iran nuclear programme. We are in contact practically on a daily basis. This week will see another meeting of the Six at the level of deputy foreign ministers and the Foreign Minister of Iran. At first glance the issues that still remain to be agreed to are not all that complicated. But, as always, before the end of the marathon talks, at the final stage, everyone wants to get a little more. I’m sure that a compromise is possible. I cannot guarantee that it will happen before 24 November. This is not a “sacred” date, we seek to achieve a result before that date, but I’m convinced that it is not about setting artificial deadlines, but about the substance and quality of the agreements. This is what we consider to be the main accomplishment. I got a feeling during my talks with John Kerry and Laurent Fabius that our partners also proceed from this principle. I hope we will achieve the result.