Iran, US Satisfied With First Talks, Preparing For Next Round -- Ambassador

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 11 (Bernama) -- The first round of negotiations between Iran and the United States (US) in Oman concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction, and preparations are now underway for a second round of talks, said the Ambassador of Iran to Malaysia, Valiollah Mohammadi.

Speaking to the media at a reception marking the 47th Anniversary of the Victory of the Islamic Revolution of Iran, he highlighted that despite propaganda and a complex geopolitical climate, diplomatic channels remain active.

“The first round of the talks was satisfactory, both sides were satisfied, and they are going to negotiate for the second round of the talks.

“I hope, insya-Allah, diplomacy can be effective, and we see the fruits of diplomacy and stay far from war,” he said, warning that conflict in such a strategic region would bring disunity and problems “all around the world”.

In his official address at the event, Valiollah elaborated on Iran’s recent diplomatic efforts, including talks held in Muscat last Friday.

He reiterated that Iran remains steadfast in using diplomacy to secure its national interests while safeguarding regional peace, based on the principles of respect for national sovereignty.

The ongoing dialogue, facilitated by Oman, marks a critical effort to prevent further hostilities between Tehran and Washington.

Although a second round of negotiations is now on the cards, the path forward remains fraught with challenges. Iran is seeking sanctions relief in exchange for uranium reduction, while Washington presses for a total halt to enrichment and limits on ballistic missile capabilities.

Addressing recent reports of unrest in his country, Valiollah dismissed negative portrayals circulating globally as “fake news” propagated by those outside Iran.

“There is a lot of fake news. When somebody is out of the country, they think this is the story. But when you look at Iran and are in Iran, you find all of them are fake,” he said.

The ambassador added that the “real story” lies in the continued participation of the Iranian people in supporting their nation, particularly during these challenging times marked by negotiations and external pressure.

Touching on internal security, he acknowledged that the past year had seen “ups and downs”, citing peaceful protests that began on Dec 28, 2025, over economic issues.

However, he said the gatherings were “misused by the entry of terrorist elements, turning peaceful protests into armed riots”, resulting in significant injuries to law enforcement personnel.

On the bilateral front, Valiollah praised the strengthening ties between Tehran and Kuala Lumpur.

He noted several significant developments over the past year, including the official visit of Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to Iran in February 2025, which concluded with a Joint Commission Meeting (JCM).

He also highlighted the exchange of academic delegations, the signing of the International Transfer of Prisoners (ITOP) agreement, and the resumption of direct flights between the two capitals as key achievements in bolstering bilateral relations.

The reception, held at a prominent hotel in the capital, was attended by more than 1,000 guests. Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad was the guest of honour.

Also present were Agriculture and Food Security Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, senior government officials, foreign diplomats and prominent figures in Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA