Abbas Araghchi is a senior Iranian diplomat and politician, currently serving as the Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Iran as of 2024[3][5]. Born in 1962, he holds a bachelor’s degree in international relations from Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a master’s in political science from Islamic Azad University, and a PhD in political thought from the University of Kent, England[3][7]. Araghchi began his diplomatic career within Iran’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the late 1980s, rising through the ranks over more than three decades[1][3]. Araghchi’s early postings included serving as Iran’s ambassador to Finland (1999–2003) and Japan (2008–2011), which provided him significant experience in international diplomacy[1][3][4]. He also held key domestic roles, such as director of the Foreign Ministry’s Western Europe Department (2003–2004) and deputy foreign minister for legal and international affairs (from 2005)[2][4]. In 2013, he joined Iran’s nuclear negotiating team, becoming a pivotal figure in the negotiations that led to the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)—the landmark agreement on Iran’s nuclear program with world powers[3][4]. Known for his technical expertise and calm negotiating style, Araghchi was described by American counterparts as “steely, determined, and calm,” playing a crucial role in the detailed discussions that shaped the JCPOA[4]. After the U.S. withdrew from the JCPOA in 2018, Araghchi led Iran’s negotiating team in Vienna during the Biden administration’s efforts to revive the deal in 2021. However, he was reportedly not given the authority to finalize a new agreement, and after the election of President Ebrahim Raisi, he was replaced as chief negotiator by Hossein Amir-Abdollahian[4]. Araghchi subsequently joined the Strategic Council for Foreign Relations, an advisory body to the Supreme Leader[3][4]. In 2024, Araghchi was appointed Foreign Minister by President Masoud Pezeshkian, marking a return to the forefront of Iranian foreign policy[3][5]. With extensive experience in both bilateral relations and multilateral nuclear diplomacy, Araghchi is recognized as a seasoned diplomat whose career has been closely tied to Iran’s engagement with the West, particularly on nuclear issues. His current role places him at the center of Iran’s efforts to navigate complex international relations amid ongoing tensions over its nuclear program and regional policies.
#iran #us #nuclear_talks #diplomacy
After months of tensions, Iran is willing to negotiate with the US on the condition of no further attacks. The importance of diplomacy in finding a resolution to the conflict is highlighted.