Official: Iran ready to exchange nuclear fuel, but only on its soil

The Iranian Foreign Ministry, says it's ready to exchange its low enriched uranium for a higher grade of processed material, but only in a simultaneous swap... on home ground.

Tuesday's announcement, stated that Iran sent its response on a standing proposal, to the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, and Germany. The Islamic Republic is specifying, that it wants the simultaneous exchange within its borders. These new terms mean an effective rejection of a plan previously brokered by the UN. Under the UN scheme, Tehran was to export its uranium to Russia and France for conversion into fuel rods. The refined product would then be returned to Iran within a year.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast speaks during news  conference in Tehran November 24, 2009. Iran could consider sending its low-enriched uranium abroad, the Foreign Ministry said on Tuesday,  signalling a possible softening of its opposition to a plan aimed  at easing Western concern over its nuclear ambitions. REUTERS/Morteza Nikoubazl

Ramin Mehmanparast, Spokesman Iranian Foreign Ministry, said, "The French, British, Canadians, and Germans have had commitments to Iran since several years ago. Unfortunately, despite the commitments and agreements which they signed with our nation, they did not keep their promises. This has caused mistrust. To avoid repeating the same problem, we are seeking 100 percent guarantees ... One of those guarantees could be nuclear fuel exchange inside our country."