As the world struggles to find a formula for dealing with suspicious nuclear developments in Iran, Russian diplomats have been holding bilateral talks with Iranian officials on a proposal they say could defuse the crisis.To put the situation in perspective, Russia has the world’s largest stockpile of nuclear weapons, estimated to be in the region of 16,000.
Moscow has tabled an offer to enrich uranium for an Iranian reactor under international supervision as a way of appeasing international concerns. Although Russia already enjoys good relations with Tehran, it is not interested in a nuclear-armed Iran on its southern doorstep. Nor does Russia want to see nuclear proliferation in the Middle East, experts say. In addition, an agreement would be a boon to Russia’s image as a peace broker in international politics. Russia wants to be seen as one of the big players, not as sitting on the sidelines. Russia also has strong economic interests in Iran. Besides conventional arms, Moscow sells Iran nuclear reactors. For example, the light-water commercial reactor at Bushehr, built by Russians, was sold for more than $800 million. Two other similar nuclear projects are in the works, Ferguson says. The Russians might cut a deal with Iran by saying that they will give you a good price on fuel if you allow them to build. Russian trade with Iran is also growing. In 2005, Russian exports to Iran totaled roughly $2 billion. Russian exports to Iran could reach $10 billion in the coming years.
Aissatou Nafi Maiga
