U.S. Vice President JD Vance said significant progress had been made in the ongoing talks in Bürgenstock, Switzerland, noting that the United States and its counterparts had laid a solid foundation for reaching a final agreement and a lasting settlement.
Vance expressed hope that the negotiating parties would be able to build on the progress achieved and successfully complete the process.
He stated that the talks continued despite some complaints and difficulties, adding that they had produced notable advances. Technical discussions are expected to continue throughout the week, while meetings with inspectors from the International Atomic Energy Agency are scheduled to begin in Bürgenstock on Monday.
According to Vance, Iran has agreed to invite international inspectors into the country, describing the move as “a very important step” in the nuclear negotiations.
On regional issues, Vance said the parties had reached agreements on mechanisms to prevent escalation and maintain a ceasefire. He also announced the establishment of a mechanism to keep the Strait of Hormuz open, ensure freedom of navigation, and facilitate mine-clearing operations in the strategic waterway.
Regarding Lebanon, Vance said a framework had been developed to prevent clashes, support disengagement efforts, and reduce tensions. He noted that the discussions in Bürgenstock had produced more progress on the Lebanese file than had existed 24 hours earlier.
He stressed that the United States is seeking simultaneously to safeguard Israel’s security and preserve Lebanon’s sovereignty, adding that developments in Lebanon will remain under continuous discussion and monitoring in the coming period.
Vance also called on Iran to restrain Hezbollah, saying the issue forms part of broader efforts aimed at strengthening regional stability.
Addressing the issue of Iranian assets, Vance said that misleading reports were circulating on the matter. He emphasized that the objective is to establish a mechanism ensuring that the funds are used in ways that benefit the Iranian people and are not directed toward financing terrorism.
He concluded by saying that although the negotiations have achieved substantial progress, considerable work remains before a comprehensive and final agreement can be reached.
Sources: Reuters and AFP
