U.S., EU optimistic about renewed talks with Iran

 　　WASHINGTON, Feb. 17 (Xinhua) -- The United States and the European Union (EU) on Friday saw positive signs in Iran's stated willingness to reopen talks over its controversial nuclear program.

　　U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton called the reply letter sent by Iran to EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton "an important step".

　　"As outlined in Cathy's October letter to Iran, any conversation with Iran has to begin with a discussion of its nuclear program and Iran's response to Cathy's letter does appear to acknowledge and accept that," the top U.S. envoy¹ told reporters after meeting Ashton at the State Department.

　　Iran's letter, sent by its chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili on Tuesday in response to Ashton's October letter offering to resume talks on condition that the Islamic republic sets no preconditions, said it is ready for renewed negotiations² with the six powers -- Britain, China, France, Russia, the U.S. and Germany.

　　Clinton demanded Iran's assurances for a "sustained effort" in reaching an outcome once the six powers go ahead with the talks.

　　However, she added that "I think it's fair to say -- of course I'll let Cathy speak for herself -- that we think that this is an important step and we welcome the letter."

　　For her part, Ashton said she was "cautious and optimistic" about the prospect³ of resumed talks with Iran. She sent her letter to Iran on behalf of the six powers, whose last talks with the country broke down in Istanbul, Turkey in January 2011.

　　"There is a potential possibility that Iran may be ready to start talks. We'll continue to discuss and make sure that what we' re looking at is substantive," she said, adding "But I'm cautious and optimistic at the same time for this."

　　Iran is suspected of seeking nuclear bombs under its nuclear program, but the country counters that its nuclear program is only for peaceful purpose.

　　Washington and the EU have targeted Iran's central bank and oil exports for sanctions in their continuous efforts to press the country to stop its uranium enrichment activities.

1 envoy   

n.使节，使者，代表，公使

参考例句：

• Their envoy showed no sign of responding to our proposals.他们的代表对我方的提议毫无回应的迹象。
• The government has not yet appointed an envoy to the area.政府尚未向这一地区派过外交官。

2 negotiations   

协商( negotiation的名词复数 )； 谈判； 完成（难事）； 通过

参考例句：

• negotiations for a durable peace 为持久和平而进行的谈判
• Negotiations have failed to establish any middle ground. 谈判未能达成任何妥协。

3 prospect   

n.前景，前途；景色，视野

参考例句：

• This state of things holds out a cheerful prospect.事态呈现出可喜的前景。
• The prospect became more evident.前景变得更加明朗了。