Iran has opened talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency on demands for a tougher inspections regime for its nuclear programme.
The head of the Iranian delegation, Ali Akbar Salehi, said he expected the Tehran talks to last for several days but added that he was optimistic agreement could be reached on Iran's implementation of an additional protocol to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
He said he did not exclude a settlement before the 31 October deadline set by the IAEA in the face of growing international concern about Iran's nuclear activities, but added that Iran did not feel bound by that timetable.
Iran has been under international pressure to sign a protocol to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty as a sign of good faith over its nuclear plans.
