Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said he’s seeking the removal of all sanctions against his country during negotiations with world powers on a nuclear deal.
“We want an agreement that protects our dignity and respect,” Rouhani said in Tehran as he addressed a few thousand people at a rally to mark the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic Revolution that deposed the U.S.-backed shah.
The speed at which sanctions are rolled back under a possible deal emerged as one of the main sticking points in earlier rounds of talks. The restrictions on trade and access to financial markets have slashed oil exports, the backbone of Iran’s economy.
Iran and a grouping of six countries, led by the U.S., are trying to resolve a 12-year dispute over the intent behind Iran’s nuclear program. They have until June 30 to reach a final deal and are aiming to have the outlines for an agreement mapped out by the end of March.
Rouhani said on Wednesday that since taking office in 2013 his government had been able to escape a “dead end” in its relations with the outside world
The U.S. and its allies say they want to ensure that Iran is unable to pursue a nuclear weapon. Iran says its program is intended for civilian uses.
Rouhani’s policy of engaging with the U.S. has been criticized by his opponents in Tehran, most of whom are hardliners distrustful of involvement with Iran’s long-standing foe.