Iran talks likely to go on through weekend

Responding to the Press TV correspondent's question on whether a deal could be achieved on Friday, Zarif said he "doubts it."

"We're making progress. It seems we are staying here for the weekend. We're working," he said, adding, "We're not there yet."

The comments came shortly after the Iranian foreign minister said the P5+1 countries are shifting their positions and pressing excessive demands.

“Unfortunately, we are witnessing both shifts in positions and excessive demands... Several countries [which are members] in the P5+1 group hold different positions. Such issues have made the negotiations difficult. We want a dignified agreement and negotiations, and we will continue to negotiate. The deal would be within reach should the other side seek an honorable and balanced accord,” he said late on Thursday.

Zarif, in an article published in the Financial Times on Wednesday, reminded the five permanent members of the UN Security Council - Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States - plus Germany to choose between coercion and agreement, warning against opting for the former.

Iran and the P5+1 countries have been engaged in crucial talks in the Austrian capital Vienna towards reaching a landmark deal over Tehran’s nuclear program.
/SR

'Iran talks likely to go on through weekend'