Saturday, January 10, 2004
I just couldn't resist fixing Reuters' headline for this piece.
Iran Rebuffs U.S. Overtures to Start Dialogue
TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran said on Saturday it had no plans to start talks with its long-time adversary the United States, and that U.S. policy toward the Islamic Republic must change.
Secretary of State Colin Powell (news - web sites) said on Friday Iran's acceptance of U.S. aid after the Bam earthquake had opened up opportunities for dialogue between the foes although there was no reason to expect a quick political rapprochement.
"Now there is no plan for starting negotiations," said Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharrazi. "U.S. policy toward Iran must change, getting rid of its hostile atmosphere."...