"Better understanding" on Iran program, more work needed - IAEA chief

VIENNA, July 3 (KUNA) -- The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Tehran now have a "better understanding" in some areas of the Iranian nuclear program, yet more work is required, head of the UN nuclear watchdog has said.
The IAEA chief Yukiya Amano made the statement on Friday, a day after a crucial visit to Iran where he met with President Hassan Rouhani and other top officials.
"The purpose of the visit was to advance work towards the resolution of all outstanding issues regarding Iran's nuclear program, including clarification of possible military dimensions," Amano said in a statement.
"I believe that both sides have a better understanding on some ways forward, though more work will be needed," he added.
Amano noted that they had also "touched on the ongoing negotiations between the E3+3 countries and the Islamic Republic of Iran towards a Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, and the Agency's monitoring and verification of nuclear-related measures under such agreement." Earlier, Iran and the world powers agreed to extend till July 7 negotiations on a final agreement on Tehran's nuclear program. Western diplomats, however, expect an agreement earlier, according to the Austrian Press Agency (APA).
APA pointed to remarkable advance in the negotiations, especially what is related to IAEA inspection of Iranian military facilities associated with the nuclear program.
The agency quoted Western diplomats as saying that the negotiations have entered a final stage. Foreign Ministers of the six powers and Iran left Vienna after their talks on Thursday, hopefully for a return on Sunday after they gave directives on preparing a draft agreement. (end) amg.msa