The international community has reacted positively to Iran’s willingness to send enriched uranium abroad for further enrichment. In return Iran will receive nuclear fuel which it cannot use to develop nuclear weapons.

Nevertheless international reactions are reserved. The United States says Iran should contact the International Atomic Energy Agency if it is serious about the plan. Great Britain called it a positive signal and Russia welcomed the decision.

Germany is more reluctant to believe in cooperation by Iran. Chancellor Angela Merkel believes the statement is too thin and wants to see concrete deeds.

China hopes for international agreement and stressed the importance of continuing negotiations.

Tehran’s concession is in line with one of the main conditions by the West for Iran to be allowed to run a nuclear power programme.

Western countries fear Iran will use enriched uranium to make nuclear weapons. Iran insists it will only use the uranium for peaceful purposes.

Photo: Iran's nuclear programme - Flickr/truthout