Rafsanjani says optimistic about resolution of nuclear issue

Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a veteran politician who chairs the Expediency Council, said on Monday that he is optimistic about the ongoing talks between Iran and major powers over Tehran’s nuclear program.

Regarding the “prevalence of wisdom and diplomatic prudence in the climate of talks we are optimistic” about the prospects of nuclear talks and an improvement in “relations with the world,” Rafsanjani said in a meeting with an Italian parliamentary delegation headed by Senator Ettore Rosato.

Rafsanjani also said the centuries-old relations between Iran and Italy has provided an opportunity for officials in Tehran and Rome to carefully draw up plans for better cooperation.

On a question by Senator Rosato about the prospects of the Iranian foreign policy, Rafsanjani said the current government is serious in its determination to interact with the world on the basis of mutual respect and it is not accidental that the resolution of the nuclear dispute with the West is a priority for the government.