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Russia, China Closer on Iran Sanctions

Posted on: Thursday, 13 July 2006, 12:00 CDT

China and Russia appear to be coming closer to the West on issuing U.N. sanctions against Iran to curb its nuclear program.

The New York Times reports the two countries agreed in Paris Wednesday with the United States and Europe to seek a United Nations Security Council resolution that would order Iran to freeze some nuclear activities, or face sanctions. This comes after Iran refused to respond to an economic and energy incentive package in exchange for suspending its uranium enrichment.

The Times noted that while the imposition of sanctions is not certain, the latest move by Russia and China in that direction is a major decision for them. The report said both countries' strong commercial ties with Iran have in the past stopped them from any strong measures against that country.

The developments in Paris came at a meeting of foreign ministers of six countries which had offered the incentives package. The group agreed to seek a Security Council resolution that would make suspension of enrichment mandatory. The six countries have a list of likely sanctions but are yet to decide which ones might be implemented.

The Times report said the latest development is a victory particularly for U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's diplomatic gamble. It also comes on the eve of the summit of the Group of 8 industrialized nations in St. Petersburg, Russia.

Source: United Press International

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