Inclusion in this chronology does not necessarily indicate that a particular development is of direct or indirect proliferation significance. Some entries provide international or domestic context for technological development and national policymaking. Moreover, some entries may refer to developments with positive consequences for nonproliferation.

January 2002
Iran prepays a Russian company, Kolomensky Zavod, $2 million for five emergency diesel generator plants, at least some of which are for the Bushehr nuclear power plant. [Note: See 11 February 2002.]
—"Russia: Moscow Region Firm to Supply Emergency Units for Iran's Nuclear Plant," Agentstvo Voyennykh Novostey (Moscow), 11 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020211000087, 11 February 2002.

3 January 2002
Intelligence Newsletter reports that there are three military nuclear facilities in Iran: the Amriabad laboratory, built in 1967 and upgraded by the United States in 1970 and 1974; in Karaj, 45km west of Tehran; and in Moallem Kalayeh, which reportedly has a 40MW reactor. The report also says that 300 Iranian nuclear experts are being trained around the world, mostly in Russia.
—"Will Tehran Master Nuclear Bomb Technology By 2005?," Intelligence Newsletter, 3 January 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

7 January 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, the Russian atomic energy minister, says that Russia will respect its agreements with Iran and will complete the nuclear reactor in Bushehr by 2004. He adds that the Bushehr project is similar to other projects Russia has carried out in China and India and that it is for purely peaceful purposes. Former Iranian President Hashemi Rafsanjani says that Iran has never been interested in acquiring nuclear weapons.
— "Russia Pledges to Continue Iranian Nuke Project," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 8, 7 January 2002; Vladimir Isachenkov, "Russia Will Complete Reactor Deal with Iran and Is Considering Tentative Request From North Korea," Associated Press, 27 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

8 January 2002
Former Iranian President Hashemi-Rafsanjani says "Iran is not seeking to arm itself with non-conventional weapons." [Note: See 14 December 2001 for a statement by Rafsanjani regarding nuclear arms.]
—"Daily Defends Iran's Right to Access Nuclear Technology for Peaceful Purposes," Tehran Times (Tehran), 8 January 2002; in FBIS Document IAP20020108000047, 8 January 2002.

9 January 2002
The press secretary of the Iranian embassy in Azerbaijan, Ezzatollah Jalalim denies Iran has nuclear weapons, saying, "Tehran has never and will never try to acquire nuclear weapons from other countries as Iran itself is capable of solving this problem relying on its own resources if the need should arise."
—"Iranian Envoy In Azerbaijan Denies Tehran Has Nuclear Weapons," MPA (Baku), 9 January 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020109000141, 9 January 2002.

10 January 2002
Iran's permanent representative to the United Nations, Hadi Najad-Hosseinian, writes a letter to the UN Secretary-General denying an Israeli statement that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons.
—"Iran: UN Envoy Rejects Israeli Allegation Of Seeking To Obtain Nuclear Arms," Vision of the Islamic Republic of Iran Network 1 (Tehran), 10 January 2002; in FBIS Document IAP20020110000022, 10 January 2002.

25 January 2002
Middle East Newsline reports that the United States is trying to prevent Russia from selling a second reactor to Iran.
—"US Seeks to Stop Second Russian Nuke reactor in Iran," Middle East Newsline, 25 January 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

30 January 2002
The new Russian ambassador to Iran, Aleksandr Maryasov, denies that Russia is helping Iran acquire nuclear weapons. "What America and Israel are alleging is not true since we have never cooperated in the production of nuclear arms," he says. "These countries are only making baseless allegations. We should ignore these allegations,"
—"Iran: Russian Envoy on Afghanistan, Terrorism, US, Israel, Nuclear Power Plant," IRNA (Tehran), 30 January 2002; in FBIS Document IAP20020206000065, 30 January 2002.

31 January 2002
Efraim Sneh, Israeli minister of transportation calls for sanctions against Iran so it will not have money to build nuclear arms. "The most important and maybe the most urgent thing," he says, "is to urge the Russian to stop the technological assistance, and especially for the Iranian nuclear project."
—Steve Weizman, "Israeli Minister Urges US To Pressure Russia To Stop Helping Iran Develop Nuclear Arms," Associated Press, 31 January 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

Late January 2002
The CIA issues a report that says Iran "remains one of the most active countries seeking to acquire (weapons of mass destruction and advanced conventional weapons) technology from abroad....In doing so, Tehran is attempting to develop a domestic capability to produce various types of weapons—chemical, biological, nuclear—and their delivery systems."
—George Gedda, "US Says Iran Making Headway on Nuclear Weapons Program," Associated Press, 11 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

1 February 2002
Hasan Ruhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, says Iran is not building nuclear arms and that the International Atomic Energy Agency can investigate American allegations.
—"Iran: Secretary of Security Council Says Bush Has No Proof For Remarks On Iran," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 1 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

2 February 2002
Aleksandr Losyukov, deputy Russian foreign minister, says the United States should not pressure Russia against helping Iran build the Bushehr nuclear power plant. "We have very clear instructions from the Russian leadership," he says, "to conduct cooperation within the framework of the existing international restricting regimes....One should have no ground to object against our contacts with Iran either in the political or trade and economic spheres."
—"Russia Will Tolerate No Outside Pressure In Its Dealings With Iran—Official," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 2 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

3 February 2002
Russian intelligence sources say Iranian scientists being trained at the NIKIET Institute in Russia are acquiring knowledge that can used for Iran's nuclear weapons program. "They are here unofficially and have been told to keep as low a profile as possible," says the Russian intelligence source. "They are being taught and are gaining experience they cannot get at home. It is hardly a secret that the Iranians are in a race to develop nuclear weapons."
—Sarah Baxter, Uzi Mahnaimi, Mark Franchetti, "Bush Trains His Military Sights on the Iran-Iraq 'Axis of Evil'," Sunday Times (London), 3 February 2002, in "Efforts to Cement Coalition Threatened by US Inclusion of Iran in Axis of Evil," FBIS Document EUP20020203000066, 3 February 2002.

4 February 2002
Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov says Russia will not limit its military or technical cooperation with Iran, including construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant. "The construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr meets all commitments that Russia has undertaken to the global community," he says. "I think I should mention that the United States is building a similar nuclear power plant in North Korea."
—"Russian Defense Minister Defends Technical Aid For Iranian Nuclear Power Station," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 4 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

4 February 2002
Iranian Defense Minister Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani says if Israel attacks the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Israel "will receive a response, which no politician in Israel can even imagine." Asked if he means a nuclear response, Shamkhani says no, but says "actions will speak." He denies that Iran is seeking nuclear weapons or that Russia is supplying Iran with parts to enrich uranium.
—"Interview With Iranian Defense Minister on Terrorism Charges, Nuclear Program," Al-Jazirah Satellite Channel Television (Doha), 5 February 2002; in FBIS Document GMP20020206000187, 5 February 2002.

5 February 2002
A senior Israeli defense source says, "We cannot live with nuclear weapons in Iran....We prevented the Iraqis in the past and we can also prevent them."
—"'Senior Defense Source:' Israel 'Can Prevent' Nuclear Weapons in Iran," Ynet (Tel Aviv), 5 February 2002; in FBIS Document GMP20020206000124, 5 February 2002.

5 February 2002
Iranian Defense Minister Rear Admiral Ali Shamkhani says it is not in Iran's interest to acquire nuclear weapons. "The presence of nuclear weapons with us," he says, "will turn us into a source of threat for others, which could be seriously exploited to harm our relations with the countries in the region."
—"Iranian Defense Minister Shamkhani on Nuclear Weapons, US Military Presence, Other Issues," Al-Sharq al-Awsat (London), 5 February 2002; in FBIS Document GMP20020205000045, 5 February 2002.

5 February 2002
Ali Shamkhani, the Iranian Defense Minister, warns Israel against attacking the nuclear plant in Bushehr. He adds that the retaliation to such an act will be unimaginable. He also dismisses reports that Iran received shipment of enriched uranium-235 from Russia.
—"Interview With Iranian Defense Minister on Terrorism Charges, Nuclear Program," Al Jazirah Satellite Channel (Doha), 5 February 2002; in FBIS document GMP20020206000187, 5 February 2002; "Iran: Us presence in Afghanistan a 'threat'," Deutsch Presse-Agentur 6 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

6 February 2002
CIA Director George Tenet testifies before a Senate hearing that Iran may be able to make enough fissile material for a bomb by 2010 or much sooner if Iran were to get fissile material elsewhere.
—George Gedda, "US Says Iran Making Headway on Nuclear Weapons Program," Associated Press, 11 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

6 February 2002
Kamal Kharazi, the Iranian foreign minister, rejects allegations that Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons.
—"Iran Says US Allegations Have Roots in Domestic Problems," IRNA (Tehran), 6 February 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

6 February 2002
The Sunday Times reports that the Russian Research and Planning Institute for Power Supply Technologies (NIKIET) is training a handful of Iranian engineers in technologies that can be used for the production of nuclear weapons.
—Sarah Baxter and Mark Franchetti, "Russia, Iran run N-School Exchange," Sunday Times (London), 6 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

7 February 2002
Gholam Reza Shafei, Iran's ambassador to Russia, rejects the US accusations that Iran is developing nuclear weapons. He adds that the Iranian-Russian agreement has no military dimension and that the International Atomic Energy Agency regularly visits the Bushehr reactor.
—"IRNA: Envoy Rejects US Claims on Iran Seeking Nuclear Weapons," IRNA (Tehran), 7 February 2002; in FBIS document IAP20020207000091; 7 February 2002, "Russia: Iranian Envoy Denies Iran Intends to Develop, Purchase Nuclear Arms," Interfax (Moscow), 7 February 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020207000105, 8 February 2002.

7 February 2002
Israeli Defense Minister Binyamin Ben-Eliezer says Israel should not strike Iran's nuclear program, but should act through diplomatic channels and economic pressure to prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon, which he says could happen in 2005.
—"Ben-Eliezer Opposes Preemptive Military Strike On Iran's Nuclear Program Targets," Voice of Israel Network B (Jerusalem), 7 February 2002; in FBIS Document GMP20020207000204, 7 February 2002.

8 February 2002
George Tenet, head of the CIA, says that Iran might be able to "produce enough fissile material for a nuclear weapon by the end of this decade...Obtaining material from outside could cut years from this estimate." John Pike of GlobalSecurity.org says that there is no evidence that Iran is building a reprocessing facility to produce weapon-grade plutonium.
—John Diamond, "Israel: Iran Could Have Nuclear Arms in 5 Years, Defense Minister Calls Nation 'Twin' of Hussein's Iraq," Chicago Tribune, 8 February 2002.

11 February 2002
The Kolomensky Zavod holding company begins building diesel emergency power plants for the Bushehr nuclear power plant. According to the contract signed by Atomstroyeksport JSC [joint stock company], Iran will get four DGU6200 diesel generator plants, each including two 15-9DG diesel generators, plus one DGU-3100 plant, including one 15-9DG diesel generator. It is not clear if all the plants are destined for Bushehr. The plants, whose generators can each provide 3,100KW of electricity, are for emergency cooling of a nuclear reactor in an emergency, plus emergency power for the nuclear plant. Each diesel generator cost $700,000, and Iran has prepaid $2 million for the order in January 2002. The first diesel plant is to be delivered this year. [Note: See 3 January 2002.]
—"Russia: Moscow Region Firm to Supply Emergency Units for Iran's Nuclear Plant," Agentstvo Voyennykh Novostey (Moscow), 11 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020211000087, 11 February 2002.

14 February 2002
Valeriy Lebedev, Russian deputy minister of atomic energy, says spent Russian nuclear fuel from Russian-built plants abroad will be returned to Russia. He says Russia is committed to finishing the Bushehr nuclear power plant in late 2004 or early 2005.
—"Russian to Take Back Spent Fuel from Nuclear Stations Abroad," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 14 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020214000089, 14 February 2002; "Official: Russia Committed to Completing Nuclear Reactor In Iran," Associated Press, 14 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 February 2002
US Vice President Dick Cheney says Iran is developing weapons of mass destruction.
—"Russia Interested in Closer Ties with Iran—Radio," BBC Monitoring International Reports, 16 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 February 2002
Interfax reports that Kamal Kharazi, the Iranian foreign minister, will visit Moscow for a two-day visit starting 18 February 2002. The negotiations with Russian officials will focus on weapons of mass destruction, among other issues.
—"Iranian Foreign Minister To Visit Russia Next Week," Interfax (Moscow), 15 February 2002; in FBIS document Russia: Iranian Foreign Minister to Pay 2-day Visit to Moscow 18 Feb," CEP20020215000207, 19 February 2002.

17 February 2002
Igor Ivanov, the Russian foreign minister, says that Moscow and Tehran are following a peaceful collaboration in the use of nuclear energy.
—"Nuclear Cooperation Peaceful," Iran Daily (Tehran), 17 February 2002; in FBIS document IAP20020216000097, 17 February 2002.

18 February 2002
Viktor Kozlov, director general of Atomstroyeksport, says Russia and Iran are discussing building another nuclear power plant in Iran, and that Russian has given Iran a feasibility study of possible locations. [Note: See 4 September 2001.]
—"Russia In Talks On Building Another Nuclear Power Plant In Iran," Interfax (Moscow), 18 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020218000056, 18 February 2002.

19 February 2002
Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi postpones a visit to Russia for "technical reasons." Among other issues, he was to discuss Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran.
—Dina Pyanykh and Dmitry Vinitsky, "Iran FM Visit To Moscow Postponed "For Technical Reasons," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 19 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

19 February 2002
At a press conference following meetings with Russian officials in Moscow, John Bolton, US undersecretary of state, says he expressed US concerns over Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran. He says the two sides have differences over the issue and that is important the two sides come to an understanding. He says US President George Bush is very concerned about proliferation. Bolton says the United States will not compensate Russia if it were to give up construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant or halt conventional arms sales to Iran.
—"USA Concerned Over Russian-Iranian Cooperation—Russian Paper," BBC Worldwide Monitoring, 20 February 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

20 February 2002
The Middle East Newsline reports that Russian and Iranian officials cannot agree on the transfer of at least three additional nuclear reactors and other nuclear technology. Western diplomatic sources believe that this disagreement stands behind the delay of the visit of Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister Kamal Kharazi to Moscow. Russian officials confirmed that Mr. Kharazi did not arrive in Moscow amid disagreement over some issues. Iran has complained after Russia decided to postpone the completion of the Bushehr nuclear reactor to 2005 instead of 2003 as initially agreed upon. Yet, Victor Kozlov, director-general of Atomstroyesksport, the company building the Bushehr nuclear reactor, says that his company has sent a feasibility study for new nuclear reactors in Iran.
—"Iran, Russia Fall Out Over Nuke Program," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 72, 20 February 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

21 February 2002
Valery Lebedev, Russian deputy atomic energy minister, says that Moscow plans to complete the construction of the Bushehr nuclear plant by late 2004 or 2005. He reiterates that Russia will not cancel its contract with Iran despite US pressure.
—"Iran's Nuclear Reactor Again Set Back," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4 No 74, 21 February 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

21 February 2002
Amin Tarzi, a senior analyst at the Center of Nonproliferation Studies, says, "The Iranian nuclear program is in shambles and the people who read all the intelligence know that."
—Scott Peterson, "Iran's Nuclear Challenge: Deter, not Antagonize," Christian Science Monitor, 21 February 2002, <http://www.csmonitor.com>.

25 February 2002
The Canadian Security Intelligence Service issues a report that says Iran is determined to acquire nuclear weapons and, according to US military and intelligence sources, has tried to develop the capability to enrich uranium by buying parts from Western European companies.
—Stewart Ball, "'Axis' Harbours Nuclear Plan: CSIS: New Intelligence Report Says Iraq and Iran Want the Weapons 'At Earliest Opportunity'," National Post (Toronto), 26 February 2002, in "Canadian Intelligence Service Report Seen Bolstering US 'Axis of Evil' View," FBIS Document EUP20020227000171, 26 February 2002.

25 February 2002
Marianne, a weekly published in Paris, reports that the Russian minister of atomic energy has imposed severe restrictions on nuclear cooperation between Russia and Iran. The weekly adds that Russian scientists will leave Iran. Hamid Reza Asefi, Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, did not challenge the veracity of these reports but refused to confirm them.
—"Are Russian Specialist Leaving Bushehr Power station?," Bonyan (Tehran), 25 February 2002; in FBIS document IAP 20020224000056, 26 February 2002.

26 February 2002
Hamida Edalat, MP from Bushehr, says "it is not true that Russian experts are leaving Iran after pressures were exerted by America." She adds that "parts of executive operation that were to be handed over to Iranians according to the contract are being handed over and the Russian experts are leaving the country for this reason." Hamid Reza Asefi, spokesman for the Iranian Foreign Ministry, says there has been no change in Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation. Aleksandr Maryanov, Russian ambassador to Iran, says Russia will fulfill its obligation to build the Bushehr nuclear power plant. And "will be implementing in full all accords reached in connection with this project no matter what the prospects for expanding Russian-Iranian cooperation in the sphere of nuclear energy might be."
—"Deputy Denies Russians Leaving Iran Under US Pressure," Nowruz (Tehran), 26 February 2002; in FBIS Document IAP20020226000034, 26 February 2002; "Russia To Honor Its Commitments in Building Iran Nuclear Plant," RIA-Novosti (Moscow), 26 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020226000382, 26 February 2002; "Iranian FM Official: There Has Been No Change in Nuclear Coop With Moscow," IRAN (Tehran), 26 February 2002; in FBIS Document IAP20020226000098, 26 February 2002.

26 February 2002
The Iranian embassy in Georgia issues a statement denying claims by Levan Kidzinidze, former aid to Ajarian leader Aslan Abashidze, that with Abashidze's help, four physicists were sent to Iran in 1995 to help Iran develop nuclear weapon. The statement calls the claims "the figment of a sick imagination." [Note: See also 1995.]
—"Iran Denies Former Georgian Official's Nuclear Program Claims," Kavkasia-Press (Tbilisi), 26 February 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020226000312, 26 February 2002.

28 February 2002
The United States acknowledges that Russia has started efforts to stop the transfer of nuclear technology to Iran. State Department spokesman Richard Boucher says that the Russians have punished entities involved in illicit activities with Iran.
—"US Acknowledges Russia Efforts on Iran WMD," Middle East Newsline, 28 February 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that the facility of Chalus is located 20 kilometers south of the town bearing the same name. It is allegedly an underground nuclear weapons development facility built in the Alborz mountains. Iranian authorities tell their citizens that the facility is an electricity generation plant operated by Canadians.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that the Nuclear Research Center for Agriculture and Medicine is located in Karaj. The center reportedly has a radiochemistry lab, dosimeter lab, a Chinese calutron and a Belgian cyclotron.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that Iran's civilian and military nuclear programs are headquartered in Tehran. The Tehran Nuclear Research Center has a 5MW nuclear research reactor. It also has a uranium yellowcake production facility. Tehran also hosts the AEOI center for Theoretical Physics and Mathematics, which carries out research on nuclear physics and plasma physics.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that the Nuclear Research Department at the University of Yazd carries out geological research and mining in the Saghand uranium deposits. The deposits are believed to contain 5,000 tons of uranium oxide with a U-235 content between 0.08% and 1.0%.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that Neka is allegedly a nuclear facility near the Caspian Sea. Reports claim that it is an underground facility.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that the location of the Rudan Nuclear Research Center is near the city of Shiraz. The facility is believed to focus on uranium yellowcake processing into uranium hexafluoride gas.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that there are unconfirmed reports of a nuclear reactor in Tabas.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

March 2002
The Middle East Intelligence Bulletin reports that Isfahan is believed to be the center of the Iranian nuclear weapons program. The Nuclear Technology Research Center at the University of Isfahan allegedly employs 3,000 scientists. Isfahan is also home of a 27KW Chinese-supplied miniaturized neutron source reactor.
—Michael Rubin, "Iran's Burgeoning WMD Program," Middle East Intelligence Bulletin, March/April 2002, <http//www.meib.org>.

3 March 2002
Russian radio reports that Iran and Russia are facing serious financial differences relevant to the construction of Bushehr nuclear power plant. The Russian Mignews Internet Agency quotes Russian diplomatic sources who say that Iran has not met its payment commitments.
—"Russia and Iran Fall Out Over Nuclear Power Station," Ekho Moscovy Radio, 3 March 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020303000010, 21 June 2002.

4 March 2002
Yevgeniy Reshetnikov, Russian deputy minister of atomic energy, denies the existence of any financial problems preventing the completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—"Russia: Official Denies Problems of Financing Iran's Nuclear project," Interfax (Moscow), 4 March 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020304000079, 21 June 2002.

5 March 2002
Iran and Russia reject allegations that Russian nuclear scientists have withdrawn from the Bushehr nuclear plant.
—"Iran, Russia firm on Nuclear Cooperation," United Press International, 5 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

7 March 2002
Haaretz reports that China's ambassador to Israel, Pan Zhanlin, asserts that China opposes the spread of weapons of mass destruction and would punish any Chinese company exporting such technology. This statement was in response to allegations of Chinese exports of arms technology to Iran.
—Gideon Alon, "China Opposes Proliferation of Nuclear Technology to Iran," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 7 March 2002; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu/>.

7 March 2002
Victor Kozlov, director-general of Atomstroyesksport, visits Iran to coordinate the Bushehr project. Atomstroyesksport signs contracts with Iranian subcontractors. It will soon start the installation of the already supplied material.
—"Russian Nuclear Official Visits Iran to Coordinate Bushehr Project," RIA-Novosti (Moscow), 7 March 2002; in FBIS Document CEP20020307000113, 21 June 2002.

11 March 2002
Victor Kozlov, director-general of Atomstroyesksport, says that Iran will decide on the construction of a second nuclear reactor in Bushehr by the end of this year. Iran will also choose the site for two new nuclear reactors in few months.
—"Iran Will Decide on Second Russian Nuclear Power Plant by Year-End," Agence France Presse, 11 March 2002, Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

14 March 2002
UN General-Secretary Kofi Annan says there is no evidence that Iran is attempting to acquire nuclear weapons.
—"Iran Commentary Says Kofi Annan Exposed False US Allegations," Financial Times, 14 March 2002, Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 March 2002
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says that Russia will meet all the commitments to the nuclear power plant in Bushehr.
—"Russian Nuclear Contract With Iran on Track, Further Ones Possible," British Broadcasting Corporation, 15 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 March 2002
In response to the US announcement of its new nuclear weapons strategy targeting seven states, including Iran, and hinting about an end to the moratorium on nuclear testing, Iran writes a letter of protest to United Nations Secretary General Kofi Annan. Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi writes, "US threats are a flagrant violation of its commitments to the [Nuclear] Non-Proliferation Treaty and go against guarantees given by US officials."
—Agence France-Presse, 18 March 2002; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu/>.

19 March 2002
Wolfgang Hoffman, the executive secretary of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization, says that legal problems have prevented Iran from sending data to the organization. [Note: See 26 March and 15 April 2002.]
—"Executive Secretary 'Optimistic' US Will Stick To Nuclear Moratorium," Der Standard (Vienna), 19 March 2002; in FBIS document EUP20020319000088, 21 June 2002.

21 March 2002
Nucleonics Week reports that Majid Teymuri, director of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, has said that the plant is four months behind its timetable because of ongoing adjustments in detailed design engineering.
—"Bushehr 1 Plant Changes To Fit VVER Mean Startup in Early 2004," Nucleonics Week, Vol. 43, No. 12, 21 March 2002, <http://www.mhenergy.com>.

21 March 2002
The US Department of Defense reports that because of tight resources and a relatively less developed technological base, Iran is not likely to produce fissile material on its own.
—Yekaterina Vladimirova, "Will Russia Give Weapons Of Mass Destruction to Third World Nations?" Utro.ru (Moscow), 21 March 2002; in "Russia Exodus of Scientists Raises Proliferation Concerns," FBIS document CEP20020404000303, 5 April 2002.

26 March 2002
The Guardian of London reports that Iran has withdrawn its contribution to the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization to protest against US hostility to the treaty. [Note: See 19 March and 15 April 2002.]
—Julian Borger and John Gittings, The Guardian (London), 26 March 2002, <http://www.guardian.com>.

26 March 2002
Azerbaijani newspaper Azadliq reports that Iranians have transported loads of soil from Babak and Culfa districts in Azerbaijan. These regions are believed to be very rich in uranium. The newspaper reports that excavations took place at night.
—"Iran smuggling Uranium From Azeri Excalve," British Broadcasting Corporation (London), 26 March 2002, Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

27 March 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian atomic energy minister, says that Russia may supply nuclear fuel to Iran on the condition that the fuel be returned to Russia for reprocessing.
—"Russia to Supply Nuclear Fuel to Iran on Condition of its return for reprocessing-Atomic Ministry," Interfax, 27 March 2002; in <http://cnsinfo.miis.edu>.

28 March 2002
Inspectors of the International Atomic Energy Agency find no evidence that Iran is using its nuclear reactor for military purposes.
—"IAEA fails to Find Evidence of Iran's Nuclear Weapon Program," <http://www.nci.org>, accessed on 2 April 2002.

28 March 2002
IRNA reports that Mohammed Javad Zarif, Iran's deputy foreign minister, regrets the failure of efforts made by the international community to eliminate weapons of mass destruction and offer guaranties to non-nuclear states for their security.
—"Iran Calls for Global Efforts to Secure Disarmament Success," Xinhua General News Agency (Beijing), 28 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

28 March 2002
A Russian diplomat says that the world community does not have any solid evidence that Iran is developing nuclear weapons.
—Vladimir Suprun, "Russia Expert Sees no proof of Iran Nuke Military Program," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 28 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

29 March 2002
Ukrainian Prime Minister Anatoly Kinakh says that Ukraine had severe economic losses because it complied with the United States and did not sell nuclear reactors to Iran. Yet, it is getting nothing in return. Officials at the state-owned Turboatom say that the Ukrainian nuclear industry lost $1.5 billion because it agreed not to sell the reactor to Iran.
—"Ukraine's Premier Complains of Poor US Support," Deutsch Presse-Agentur, 29 March 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

1 April 2002
Kamal Kharazi, the Iranian foreign affairs minister, visits Moscow after his planned visit was postponed following divergence between Iran and Russia. [Note: See 18 February 2002.] This visit comes amid US pressure on Russia to stop its cooperation with Iran in the nuclear and missile fields. Mr. Kharazi is expected to discuss the completion of the Bushehr nuclear plant construction.
—"Russia Receives Iranian Envoy, Faces Down US Over Nuke Plant," <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, accessed on 2 April 2002.

2 April 2002
Alexander Kudryavtsev, Russian Atomic Energy Minister, says that despite Russian and Iranian divergence over payment schedule and technical specification, the cooperation between Iran and Russia will continue. He adds that 5,000 tons of material has been shipped to Bushehr. Iran has requested the construction of three new nuclear reactors. However, Russia has not agreed to the request yet. Iran cancelled a visit of its foreign affairs minister after Putin refused to meet with him.
—"Russia Transfers equipment for Bushehr" Middle East Newsline Vol. 4, No. 123, 2 April 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

4 April 2002
Kamal Kharazi, Iranian Foreign Affairs Minister, says that the cooperation agenda between Iran and Russia includes completing the construction of the nuclear power station in Bushehr.
—"Russia and Iran Negotiate Completion of Nuclear Plant construction," Interfax (Moscow), 4 April 2002.

4 April 2002
Alexander Lusyukov, Russian Deputy Atomic Energy Minister, says that Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation will not be at the expense of other countries. He also rejects US and Israeli allegations that the Russian-Iranian cooperation will put Iran in a position to produce nuclear weapons.
—"Moscow: Nuclear and Military Cooperation with Tehran is not aimed at any other Country's Interests," Asharq Alawsat (London), 4 April 2002, <http:www.asharqalawsat.com>.

4 April 2002
The British Broadcasting Corporation reports that Iran and Russia are discussing the construction of a second unit at the Bushehr power plant. Victor Kozlov, director of Atomstroyeksport, says, "guided by the results of work on the first power unit, the sides are now discussing a possibility of completing construction of the second unit." He adds that the construction contract might be signed in the coming two years.
—"Iran, Russia Discuss Building 2nd Unit at Bushehr Power Plant," British Broadcasting Corporation (London) 4 April 2002; in Lexis-Nexis <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

5 April 2002
Igor Ivanov, Russian Foreign Affairs Minister, rejects US allegations that Russia has supplied dual-use items to Iran.
—"Russian Foreign Minister rejects US Claims of Dual-Purpose Supplies To Iran" Interfax (Moscow) 5 April 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020405000142, 8 April 2002.

15 April 2002
Fayruz Hassini, Iran's representative at the United Nations in Vienna, denies allegations that Iran has stopped cooperating with the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization. He says that Iran was among the first signatory countries. [Note: See 19 and 26 March 2002.]
—"Iran denies stopping cooperation with Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty Organization," Asharq Alawsat (London) 4 April 2002, <http:www.asharqalawsat.com>.

20 April 2002
The deputy Russian atomic energy minister says that Russia has decided to complete the nuclear reactor in Bushehr. He adds that all necessary documents for the construction of two other new reactors have been prepared.
—"Iran: Russian Official Says Documents For Another Two Nuclear Reactors Ready," Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran, 20 April 2002, <http://cnsinfo.miis.edu/>.

23 April 2002
John Wolf, US assistant secretary of state, says that the United States failed to stop Russian nuclear assistance to Iran.
—"US Fails to Stop Russian Nuke AID To Iran," Middle East Newsline, 23 April 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

26 April 2002
Interfax reports that the Leningradsky Metallichesky Zavod [Leningrad Metal Factory] has manufactured basic parts of the 1,000MW turbine to be installed in Bushehr.
—"Leningrad Company Manufacturing Parts For Nuclear Power Plant in Iran," Interfax (Moscow) 26 April 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020426000006, 21 June 2002.

27 April 2002
The construction of the main component of the 1,000MW nuclear power plant is complete. The turbine will be tested soon. A Russia official says that despite US pressure, the nuclear power plant in Bushehr will be operational in 2003.
—"Iran: First Bushehr Nuclear Power Station to become operational in 2003," Voice of The Islamic Republic of Iran, Radio 1 (Tehran), 27 April 2002, in FBIS document IAP20020427000001, 21 June 2002.

2 May 2002
The general director of the Russian nuclear organization says that the financial problems between Russia and Iran that were facing the completion of the Bushehr power plant have been resolved.
—"IAEA Deems Iran's Nuclear Activities Peaceful," Tehran Times (Tehran), 2 May 2002, <http://www.tehrantimes.com>.

6 May 2002
Russian Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov says that Russia is ready to resolve US concerns about the Russian Nuclear cooperation with Iran.
—"Ivanov Says Russia is Ready to resolve US Concern over Nuclear Cooperation with Iran," RIA-Novosti 6 May 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020507000008 24 June 2002.

9 May 2002
The Bush administration decides to impose new penalties on Chinese, Armenian, and Moldavian companies believed to be assisting Iran's weapon of mass destruction program. These entities are Lizen Open Joint Stock Company and Armen Sargasian, Armenia; LiyangYunlong, Aka Liyang Chemical Equipment Company, Zibo Chenmical Equipment Plant, Aka Chemet Global Ltd, China Mational Machinery and Electric Equipment Import and Export, Wha Cheong Tai Comapny, China Shipbuilding Trading Company, The China Precision Machinsery Import/Export Corporation, The China National Aero-Technology Import and Export, QC Chen, China; Cuanta SA, Mikhail Pavlovitch, Moldova.
—"US to Penalize Foreign Firms Over Iran ties," New York Times, 9 May 2002; Federal Register Vol. 67, No. 95, 16 May 2002.

10 May 2002
Russian officials of the foreign ministry and Atomic Energy Ministry visit Washington to lessen the worries of the American administration with respect to the Russian-Iranian cooperation. They will also offer a new plan for cooperation with the United States regarding the Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation.
—"Minatom Chief in America To Lower Pulses Over Iranian Nuke Plant," Bellona Report vol. 3-2001, 10 May 2002 <http://www.bellona.no>.

10 May 2002
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says that the construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr remains "a sensitive topic." He stresses that the reactor cannot be used for the production of nuclear weapons.
—Charles Digges, "Russian Nuke Minister Says US Tensions Easing Over Iranian Nuke Plant," Bellona, 10 May 2002, <http://www.bellona.no/>.

10 May 2002
The Washington Times reports that Iran has moved air defense missiles to its nuclear facilities. These missiles consist of several batteries of US-made Hawk missiles that have been improved and are now dubbed I-Hawks and are deployed around the Bushehr area.
—Bill Gertz and Rowan Scarborough, "Inside the Ring," Washington Times, 10 May 2002, <http://www.washingtontimes.com>.

13 May 2002
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says that Russia and the United States must reach an agreement regarding Russia's nuclear cooperation with Iran. He adds that the Russian cooperation with Iran is respectful of international regulations and that Iran has signed all the documents required by the International Atomic Energy Agency and that the IAEA has carried out more that 60 inspections in Iran without finding any proof of any illegal activities.
—"Atomic Energy Ministry Is Counting on The US to Understand Russia's Position on Cooperation with Iran," Interfax (Moscow), 13 May 2002.

13 May 2002
Russian Foreign Affairs Minister Igor Ivanov says that the United States should refrain from making unfounded allegations about Russia's peaceful nuclear cooperation with Iran.
—"Ivanov Urges US To Refrain From sullying Iran-Russia Nuke Cooperation," IRNA (Tehran), 13 May 2002.

13 May 2002
Vladimir Orlov, Director of the PIR Center for Political Studies, says that the Russian government has instructed institutes to limit contacts with Iranian scientists and that any training offered should be explicitly approved by the security services. Analysts from PIR say that the aim of Iran is to accumulate expertise to build nuclear weapons.
—"Lax Nuke Control Casts Shadows on US-Russia Partnership," Dow Jones Newswire, 13 May 2002.

14 May 2002
Richard Perle, chairman of the Defense Policy Board, says that Russia's Soviet-era debt should be forgiven. Such action might help persuade Russia to stop its nuclear cooperation with Iran.
—"Debt Relief May Wean Russia from Iran, US Official," Reuters, 14 May 2002; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 15 May 2002.

15 May 2002
Husayn Afarideh, head of the Iranian Majlis Energy Commission, calls upon the International Atomic Energy Agency to prevent propaganda against Iran's peaceful nuclear programs. In a meeting with Werner Burkart, IAEA deputy director, Afarideh points out the IAEA positive reports about Iran and the peaceful nature of the Iranian nuclear program. Afarideh invites Burkart and IAEA high officials to visit nuclear facilities in Iran, including Bushehr.
—"Iran: Majles Official Urges IAEA to Thwart propaganda against Nuclear Programs," IRNA (Tehran), 15 May 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

15 May 2002
US Secretary of State Colin Powell says that Russia and the United States are still in disagreement concerning the transfer of sensitive equipment to Iran.
—"US, Russia Disagree on Iran: Powell," Agence France Presse, 15 May 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

16 May 2002
The Jerusalem Post reports that the Israeli government is lobbying the US administration to put the Iran-Russia nuclear cooperation at the top of the agenda of the discussion of Presidents Bush and Putin.
—Herb Keinon, "Israel Wants Iran Nukes on Agenda of Bush-Putin Summit," Jerusalem Post, 16 May 2002.

17 May 2002
The United States claims that Kvant Company, based in Chisinau, Moldova, helped Iran produce nuclear weapons. The company was founded in 1950 and specialized in electronic military equipment. It went bankrupt in 2001.
—"US Says Moldova Helped Iran Produce Weapons of Mass Destruction," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 17 May 2002, Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

17 May 2002
The Iranian embassy in Yerevan protests US allegations that Armenian entities have transferred nuclear technology to Iran. The embassy claims that not one Armenian-Iranian joint-venture is engaged in developing high military technology.
—"Armenia: Iranian Embassy Rejects US Allegation Over Transfer of High Technology," Financial Times (London), 17 May 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

21 May 2002
The Middle East Newsline reports that Russia plans to start operating the first unit of the Iran nuclear power plant by the end of 2003.
—"Russia Pledges To Continue Bushehr," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 187, 21 May 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

22 May 2002
Anton Khlopkov, a Russian security expert, says that the Russian technology transferred to Iran in the construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr cannot be used for the development of nuclear weapons.
—Anatoly Yurkin, "Russian Technologies Supplied To Iran Unfit for Making Nuclear Weapons," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 22 May 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020522000305, 24 June 2002.

24 May 2002
Maxim Shingarkin, a leading Russia nuclear expert, says that the reactor sold to Iran, a VVER-1000, can be used to produce nuclear weapons grade plutonium irrespective of IAEA inspections. He says that the reactor produces neutrons. Even if Iran returns the spent fuel to Russia, they will be able to produce plutonium with such a reactor.
—"Russian Warns Bushehr Could BE Used for Nukes," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 192, 24 May 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

24 May 2002
US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld says that Iran's goal behind acquiring nuclear technology is clear. Iran is trying to develop "the full spectrum" of weapons of mass destruction, he says.
—"Rumsfeld Iran's Nuclear Ambitions 'unambiguous'," Deutsche Presse-Agentur (Washington), 24 May 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

24 May 2002
Yevgeny Reshetnikov, Russian deputy atomic energy minister, says that Iran "cannot and will not use for any ends enriched nuclear fuel" from the Bushehr reactor. The fuel will be shipped back to Russia.
—Eric Helque, "Putin Rebuffs US Concern Over Iran Nuclear Threat," Agence France Presse, 24 May 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

24 May 2002
General Yuri Baluyevsky, Russian deputy chief of staff, says that Iran has received tactical nuclear weapons from a country other than Russia. [Note: He may be referring to Kazakhstan. See March 1993 entry.]
—"Iran, Russia Again Argue Over Nukes," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 207, 24 May 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

25 May 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, the Russian atomic energy minister, says he is pleased by the US-Russia summit. Yet he acknowledges that Russia failed to eliminate US concerns over the Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation. He says that the creation of a joint Russian-US group of experts constitutes an additional step towards the signing of a bilateral treaty on the peaceful use of atomic energy. He adds that the construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr does not mean the transfer of technologies to Iran and that the plant will be supervised for at least 10 years by Russia and will be subject to the same security measures in Russia.
—"Rumyantsev Sees Russo-US Nuclear Expert Groups as Step to Atomic Energy Treaty," Nuclear.ru (Moscow) 25 May 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020531000149, 25 May 2002; "Russia Nuclear Minister Pleased With summit, though Iran remains an Issue," Interfax (Moscow), 25 May 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020525000111, 24 June 2002.

26 May 2002
US President Bush announces that Russia has proposed international inspections, possibly by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), of the nuclear plant it is helping build in Iran to assuage US fears that the facility might help Tehran produce atomic weapons. Bush says that Russian President Putin will put pressure on Iran so that it allows international inspections of its Russian-made nuclear reactor.
—Ron Hutcheson, "Putin Offers Inspectors in Iran," Philadelphia Inquirer, 27 May 2002, <http://www.philly.com>; Steve Holland, "Bush Says Iran Nuclear Plant Might Be Inspected," Reuters (Paris), 27 May 2002; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu/>.

26 May 2002
Kamal Kharazi, the Iranian foreign minister, approves of Russia's defense of the Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation during US President George Bush's visit to Moscow.
—"Iran Welcomes Russia's Defense Of Tehran-Moscow Nuclear Cooperation," IRNA (Tehran), 26 May 2002; in FBIS document 2002052600039, 26 May 2002.

26 May 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian atomic energy minister, says that a Russian delegation will fly to Tehran to discuss the delivery of nuclear fuel to the Iranian nuclear reactor in Bushehr.
—"Russian Delegation in Iran Soon To discuss Nuclear Fuel Delivery," Agence France Presse (Paris), 26 May 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

27 May 2002
Israeli security sources say that Israel is examining a possible attack on the Iranian nuclear power plant in Bushehr, in the same way it bombed the Iraqi reactor in 1981.
—"Al Qanat: Israel May Attack Iran's Nuclear Reactor," Al Qanat (Cairo), 27 May 2002; in FBIS document 20020527000075, 24 June 2002.

27 May 2002
Husayn Afarideh, head of the Iranian Majlis Energy Commission, says that the International Atomic Energy Agency has planned 70 visits to the Bushehr nuclear power plant during the next year. He adds that the construction of the plant is going well and that about 1,000 Russian experts are at the site.
—"IAEA to Inspect Iranian Nuclear Plant," Reuters, 27 May 2002; in <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

28 May 2002
Husayn Afarideh, head of the Majlis energy commission, says that the construction of the Bushehr nuclear reactor will be undertaken under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Melissa Fleming, spokesperson of the IAEA says that IAEA representatives have visited the nuclear plant before and that once nuclear materials are supplied to the plant, four to six visits will be carried out a year.
—"Iranian Nuclear Plant to be Built under IAEA Supervision," IRNA 28 May 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

28 May 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian atomic energy minister, says that Russia will train 100 Iranian engineers to operate at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. He adds that the nuclear plant will be operational in 2004/2005 and the next six years will be a transitional period. During this period, Russian and Iranian expert will run the facility.
—"Russia to Train 100 Iranian engineers to Operate Bushehr-1 Nuclear Plant," Interfax (Moscow), 28 May 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020528000137, 24 June 2002; "Russia will Train 100 Iranian Engineer working at the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant," Asharq al Awsat (London) 29 May 2002 <http://www.asharqalawsat.com>.

30 May 2002
Muhammad Jawad Zarif, the Iranian deputy foreign minister, and Russian Foreign Mnistry official Georgy Mamedov meet concerning non-proliferation issues.
—"Russia and Iran Engage in First Non-proliferation Talks," Agence France Presse, 30 May 2002; in Iran Expert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 31 May 2002.

31 May 2002
The Middle East Newsline reports that Iran and Russia are believed to be in disagreement about tighter International Atomic Energy Agency inspections to nuclear sites in Iran. Iran opposes the Russian proposal for tighter inspections. Russia is trying to ensure that Iran cannot use the Russian built facilities to produce nuclear weapons. Iranian officials have not signed a protocol that will allow a more comprehensive inspection of nuclear site that will unveil if a facility has any secret activities. [Note: See 28 July 1997 and 1 June 2000 for more on Iran and the Additional Protocol.]
—"Iran, Russia Disagree on Tighter IAEA Controls," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 202, 31 May 2002, <http://www.menl.com/>.

10 June 2002
Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Hamid Reza Asifi rejects the remarks of General Yuri Baluyevsky, Russian deputy chief of staff, that Iran has the equipment to produce nuclear weapons. He adds that the Russian official was not aware of Iran's peaceful nuclear program.
—"Iran Rejects Reports on Nuke Weapons, reiterates IAEA Pledge," IRNA (Tehran), 10 June 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

16 June 2002
Hassan Ruhani, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, says that Iran will respect the Non-Proliferation Treaty.
—"Iran says it Abides by Non-Proliferation Treaty," IRNA, 16 June 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

21 June 2002
The Christian Science Monitor publishes a detailed article on Russian cooperation with Iran on the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Of the nuclear cooperation, John Bolton, undersecretary of state in charge of arms control, says, "The quality of the relationship with Russia really depends fundamentally on how they address this question in the future." Valentin Tikhonov, an expert from the Russian Academy of Sciences, says, "The new generation [of nuclear experts] may work in Iran, and may work on nuclear weapons because their lives are too hard and they want money, money, money." An unnamed senior US official says Russia "is giving meaningful help [to Iran] in mastering the nuclear-fuel cycle, and some critical technologies like sophisticated metal alloys [and for] laser isotope separation techniques...that are involved in building the bomb. There's enough to see a pattern of a determined Iran effort that unfortunately struck positive responses from some Russian entities." The official says, "If their [the Russians'] security is as effective as they claim it to be, and we think it is, they should be able to track these things down. They know who is flying on Aeroflot to Tehran." Vladimir Orlov, head of the PIR Center, a think tank in Moscow, says, "There is practically zero risk that Iran will use the Bushehr power plant for nuclear proliferation," noting that Russia will supply all the fuel and take back spent fuel. "Russia doesn't want—and will not support—any ambitions of Iran which may be interpreted as nuclear weapons ambitions." Rose Gottemoeller, former US deputy undersecretary of Energy responsible for nonproliferation, says, "Everyone else has cut off cooperation with Iran on nuclear technology, including the Chinese." She says the real risk is "bottom feeders—small Russian industrial or research institutions that are desperate, or they wouldn't be trying to take extreme measures, such as false invoices...to mask their sales." She says that although most Russian entities will follow export rules, "...the Russian system being what it is, I'm sure there are others who could pop out of the mud at any time." Gary Samore, a special adviser to President Clinton on nonproliferation now at the International Institute of Strategic Studies, says, "There may be a real opportunity now, post-September 11, for the US and Russia to work out an agreement that would give the Russians a strong incentive to go all the way in enforcing what they say is their policy." He says the United States should accept and "grandfather" the Bushehr deal and give Russia incentives for limiting the deal by taking responsibility for fuel supplies and forcing Iran to publicly commit to not seeking a fuel-cycle and to agree to tougher IAEA inspections. "The sooner you can step in to slow down or stop [Iran's] program, the better," he says. "If we just let the situation drift and don't do anything, they will get closer and closer, and will eventually reach the technical point of no return." [Note: See 11 July 2002 entry.]
—Scott Peterson, "Russian Nuclear Know-How Pours into Iran," The Christian Science Monitor, 21 June 2002, p. 1; in Gulf 2000,
<http://www1.columbia.edu/>.

21 June 2002
Robert Nigmatulin, Russian deputy minister of atomic energy, says that Iran does not have the technology to separate plutonium from irradiated nuclear fuel and will not be able to develop such technology on its own.
—"Russian officials Vow to Complete Iranian Nuclear Power Station," Financial Times, (London) 21 June 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

24 June 2002
Deputy Atomic Energy Minister Valery Lebedev says that spent fuel from an Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant would be returned to Russia, countering worries that Iran could use the fuel to develop nuclear weapons. The statement was in response to claims from Greenpeace International that the waste would remain in Iran. According to Lebedev, "Russia will definitely observe the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency under which spent fuel will return to the country supplying the fuel."
—Agence France-Presse, 24 June 2002; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu/>.

25 June 2002
M. Dimitriov, Russian deputy defense minister, rejects allegations that Russia and Iran cooperate on unconventional weapons. He says that the construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr complies with international laws and regulations.
—"Russia rejects That Cooperation With Iran is 'Unconventional'," IRNA (Tehran), 25 June 2002, <http://www.irna.com>.

11 July 2002
At a meeting with Russian experts in Moscow, US analyst Robert Einhorn of the Center for Strategic and International Studies says the United States should lift its opposition to Russian cooperation on the Bushehr nuclear power plant. "Russia is too committed to complete the Bushehr project and has a strong economic and political stake in carrying the project to fruition," he says. "It's time to adopt a new approach. The United States should agree to a full range of nuclear cooperative activities (with Russia) despite...the Bushehr project, provided Iran is ready to accept certain critical restrictions on its own nuclear activities and to accept stronger means of (verification)." He says Russia should limit its cooperation to Bushehr, and commit to supplying the fuel and taking back the spent fuel. Russia should also persuade Iran to sign the Additional Protocol, he adds.
—"US academics in plan to end row with Russia on Iran," Reuters, 11 July 2002; in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/2002/russiacooperationwithiran11july.htm>, 12 July 2002.

12 July 2002
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev confirms that Russia will take back the spent fuel from the Bushehr nuclear power plant. He says Russia completed a protocol with Iran in November 1998 that said Russia would take the spent fuel. Russia passed a law in 2001 to allow the import of the spent fuel, and Russia and Iran will sign the protocol in September or October, he says. The reactor will be finished in December 2003 and in operation by 2005, he says. "Construction of the first power unit is nearing completion," he says. "Heavy equipment is being supplied, along with the reactor's body, pipes, and pumping equipment. In August, a turbine will be delivered."
—Eric Engleman, "Russia pledges to accept spent nuclear fuel from Iranian power plant," Associated Press, 12 July 2002.

12 July 2002
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev says, "We see no other future work with Iran besides this (Bushehr) agreement." Russia will complete two blocks of the plant already under construction and may bid for two more at the site, he says.
—Dmitry Zaks, "Russia-Iran nuclear cooperation to end with Bushehr: minister," Agence France Presse, 12 July 2002.

Mid-July 2002
Uri Lubrani, an official with the Israeli Defense Ministry, meets in Washington with US officials about Iran's non-conventional weapons program.
—Janine Zacharia, "In closed-door meeting, Israeli expert cautions US about Iran weapons threat," Jerusalem Post, 24 July 2002.

17 July 2002
Russian ambassador to the United States, Alexander Vershbow, says of the US-Russian disagreement over Russian Bushehr, "In my view, Russia should be concerning itself with its own security and global security and should for this reason be far more vigilant and should be preventing the transfer or technology and know-how that could accelerate Iran's development of nuclear weapons and their delivery systems. Experts of both countries are in no doubt that Iran is attempting to procure this technology. So this is, in actual fact, a question of security, not economics. But at the same time many fields of cooperation of Russia and the United States, which could be very profitable economically, have been blocked on account of our concern at the leaks of technology and know-how. And while this concern persists, very profitable cooperation in the aerospace and nuclear sphere cannot move forward."
—Vladimir Skosyrev, "Dialogue of the Deaf and the Dumb: As Under Clinton, So Under Bush, Iran's Nuclear and Missile Program Remains a Stumping-Block in Russo-American Relations," Moscow Vremya, 17 July 2002; in "Solutions to 'Iran' Question Proposed, Russian Skeptical," FBIS Document CEP20020717000324, 17 July 2002.

24 July 2002
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Yakovenko says of Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran, "We declare once again that the cooperation is solely peaceful and not against the interest of any third country."
—"Russia for expansion of relations, cooperation with Iran," Islamic Republic News Agency, 24 July 2002, <http://www.irna.com/en/tnews/020724190848.etn08.shtml>.

26 July 2002
Russia releases a proposal to build a total of six reactors in Iran over the next ten years, four at Bushehr and two at Akhvaz. Russia will bid for the construction after completing the first reactor at Bushehr in 2003 or 2004. The proposal might be signed by Russian and Iranian officials at a September meeting in Tehran. The proposal also includes major cooperation in non-nuclear energy development in Iran. [Note: On 12 July 2002, the Russian atomic energy minister said nuclear cooperation with Iran would be limited to Bushehr.]
—Angela Charlton, "Russia Plans New Nuclear, Oil Cooperation With Iran Despite US Opposition," Associated Press, 26 July 2002.

29 July 2002
The United States sends a delegation including Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham and Undersecretary of State John Bolton to Moscow. The trip was planned before Russia announced a new proposal for expanded nuclear cooperation with Iran, but the issue will be raised. [See 26 July 2002 entry.] "It's fair to say the White House was infuriated by that and extremely surprised by the proposal," a US official says. "What we were told was: It's a draft and it's not done." In talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in recent weeks, President Bush believed Putin had assured him that Russia would limit its nuclear cooperation with Iran. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Marshall Billingslea tells a Senate hearing, "If we were upset about one reactor at Bushehr, you can imagine how upset we would be at the prospect of five or six."
—Peter Baker, "US Team To Press Moscow On Iran Issues," Washington Post, 30 July 2002; David R. Sands, "US Moves to Head Off Russia-Iran Nuke Pact," Washington Times, 31 July 2002.

29 July 2002
Javier Solana, the European Union's High Representative on Foreign and Security Policy, states while in Tehran,
"EU-Iran relations can never reach their full potential if we do not eliminate problems that hamper such a positive development. One is nonproliferation [and] acquisition of weapons of mass destruction. ... Differences of this nature are a serious obstacle to closer relations."
—"US Turns Up Heat on Russia over Iran," Disarmament Diplomacy Issue No. 66, September 2002, Acronym Institute, <http://www.acronyn.org>.

29 July 2002
Marshall Billingslea, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense, stated in his testimony in front of the Senate that "Iran is aggressively pursuing nuclear weapons, and we are concerned that the Bushehr nuclear power project is, in reality, a pretext for the creation of an infrastructure designed to help Tehran acquire atomic weapons."
—"US Irked by Potential Growth in Russian Nuclear Aid to Iran," Arms Control Today, September 2002, <http://www.armscontrol.org/>.

30 July 2002
The New York Times reports that some US defense officials believe the Bushehr nuclear power plant should be destroyed before it goes into operation in the next 34 months. The report also mentions that Israel has said it would not allow the plant to open. An editorial in the state-run Tehran Times, states, "Iran will definitely not sit by idly if its nuclear installations are attacked. It is a matter of national pride and security."
—Dana Priest, "US May Put Iranian Nuclear Plant on Hit List," New York Times, 30 July 2002; in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/2002/nuclearplantonhitlist30july.htm>, 30 July 2002; David R. Sands, "US Moves to Head Off Russia-Iran Nuke Pact," Washington Times, 31 July 2002.

31 July 2002
US Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham and Undersecretary of State John Bolton meet with Russia's Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyantsev to discuss issues relating to nuclear proliferation and Russia's nuclear cooperation with Iran. Neither US official makes statements on their visit on Wednesday. The day before, State Department spokesman Philip Reeker said that the US officials will convey to the Russians their concerns about Russian cooperation with Iran. Reeker stated, "We've consistently urged Russia to cease all nuclear cooperation with Iran... Contributing to Iranian nuclear weapons ambitions would be counterproductive ... to Russia's broader strategic interests."
—Steve Gutterman, "US officials meet with Russian nuclear chief amid American concern over Moscow's Iran plans," The Associated Press, 31 July 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

31 July 2002
Russian diplomat states that Moscow demanded from a Washington firm a proof that Iran was developing nuclear weapons with Russia's help. A Russian official states "Our cooperation is focused on economic aspects that do not undermine the non-proliferation regime ... If the US side has any doubts about this, then we want to hear specific facts."
—"Under US pressure, Russia stands ground over Iranian nuclear program," Agence France Presse, 31 July 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

31 July 2002
US Secretary of State Colin Powell meets with his Russian counterpart Foreign Minister Igor Ivanov and voices concern about an Iranian nuclear plant that is under construction. A senior US official stated that Russian Foreign Minister responded to Secretary Powell's concern and promised to look into the matter. More so, the senior official dismissed a Washington Post suggestion that the United States may pre-emptively strike the plant to stop it from becoming operational in two to three years.
—"Russia's Iran Plant Concerns Powell," Washington Times, 1 August 2002, <http://www.washingtontimes.com>.

31 July 2002
Alexander Yakovenko, a Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson, states on CNN, "The position of Russia on cooperation with Iran in the nuclear field remains unchanged. This cooperation bears an entirely peaceful and mutually beneficial character and is fully consistent with all the international obligation of Russia, primarily in the field of nuclear non-proliferation. The whole activity of Iran in the nuclear field as a party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons is under the control of the [International Atomic Energy] Agency, which, as is known, has identified no violations by Iran of its obligations. At the present time we are collaborating with Iran in the construction of a nuclear power plant in Bushehr and in the ensuring of its nuclear safety. As to the prospects of cooperation with Iran in the field of peaceful uses of the atom, the Long-Term Program...speaks only of the available potentialities..."
—"US Turns Up Heat on Russia over Iran," Disarmament Diplomacy Issue No. 66, September 2002, Acronym Institute, <http://www.acronyn.org>.

1 August 2002
US Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham states after his meeting with Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian Nuclear Energy Minister, "The expansion of Russian nuclear cooperation with Iran remains an issue of utmost concern to us. It has been raised to the highest levels, we are in the middle of sensitive discussion on this matter. ... We have long been concerned that Iran's only interest in nuclear civil power, given its vast domestic energy resources, is to support its nuclear weapons program. For that reason, we have consistently urged Russia to cease all nuclear cooperation with Iran, including its assistance to the reactor in Bushehr." ... Iran according to Abraham was "aggressively pursuing nuclear weapons as well as [other] weapons of mass destruction."
—"US Turns Up Heat on Russia over Iran," Disarmament Diplomacy Issue No. 66, September 2002, Acronym Institute, <http://www.acronyn.org>.

1 August 2002
US Energy Secretary Spencer Abraham says that during his meetings in Moscow on Wednesday he urged the Russians to end all nuclear cooperation with Iran. He states, "we consistently urge Russia to cease all nuclear cooperation with Iran, including its assistance to the reactor in Busheir." Secretary Abraham accuses Tehran of "aggressively pursuing nuclear weapons as well as weapons of mass destruction."
—"Russia must end Iran nuclear deal," BBC News, 1 August 2002; <http://news.bbc.co.uk/>.

1 August 2002
Alexander Yakovenko an official spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs says that Russia's position with regard to its atomic energy cooperation with Iran remains unchanged. Mr. Yakavenko states, "the 'long-term programme' for the development of trade, economic, industrial and technological cooperation between Russia and Iran for the period of up to 2012 mentions only the existing potential possibilities, the implementation of which depends on many factors, including political of course." He reiterates that Russian-Iranian cooperation in the sphere of Atomic energy "is of a peaceful, mutually advantageous character, which is in full conformity with all international commitments undertaken by Russia, above all in the sphere of nuclear non-proliferation."
—"Position of Russia with Regard to Cooperation with Iran in Atomic Energy," RIA Novosti, 1 August 2002, in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 2 August 2002.

2 August 2002
According to a statement issued by the Russian Ministry of Nuclear Energy, after a third day of meetings with US officials, Russia's Minister of Nuclear Energy Alexander Rumyantsev states that Russia would take into account "political factors" before deepening its aid to Iran. US Secretary of Energy Spencer Abraham says, "No one should be under any impression that there is anything but the utmost concern on this question on our part, and those concerns have been frankly and directly conveyed during our meetings here."
—Steven lee Myers, "Russia Indicated It Might Reconsider Iran Nuclear Plants Plan," New York Times, 2 August 2002, <http://www.nytimes.com/>.

7 August 2002
Shamim Chaudhury, head of the IAEA's technical cooperation department for the Middle East and Western Asia, inspects the Bushehr nuclear plant in southern Iran to check for compliance with international regulations for the exploitation of nuclear energy and safety standard. Iran has expanded its coordination with the IAEA in recent years by opening the plant for inspections and handing over documents related to the plants design and safety. Hamid Reza Asefi, an Iranian Forging Ministry official states that the Iran intends to complete the construction of the Bushehr plant; he says "We don't pay attention to threats and are determined to finish the works on the Bushehr station."
—"Iran nuclear plant receives IAEA inspection," Power Engineering, 7 August 2002, in IranExpert,
<http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 9 August 2002.

11 August 2002
Gholamreza Shafe'i, Iranian ambassador to Russia, rejects Western media claims that Russia had retreated from its past positions as it related to cooperation with Iran. He states, "Contrary to such rumors, since last month, the Russians have actually become more serious about cooperating with Iran." With regard to the 10-year cooperation plan between Russia and Iran, the Iranian ambassador says, "The Russian government has approved of the plan and it has no intention of backtracking on the issue of cooperation with Iran.".... "The Plan will serve Russian interests even more than Iranian interests." He adds, "The atomic cooperation between Iran and Russia is aimed at making peaceful use of atomic energy and that is something that every country, even America, has approved of."... "The International Atomic Energy Agency has not observed even one case of wrongdoing at the Bushehr reactor."
—"Iran: Ambassador says Russia has not changed views on cooperation," IRNA, 11 August 2002, in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 13 August 2002.

12 August 2002
Russia's First Atomic Energy Minister Lev Ryabev mentions that the Atomic Energy Ministry is drawing up documents to be signed with Iran regarding the return of spent Russian nuclear fuel from the Bushehr nuclear power plant to Russia. He also adds that this control will prevent the possibility "of spent fuel being used for any other purposes." With regard to general Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation on Bushehr, Mr. Ryabev states, "We plan to start putting it in operation in 2003 or in 2004....As for plans for further programs, no concrete agreements have been reached. Moreover, no contracts have been signed....I would not like to say that will build only one reactor. But I also would not like to say that we will certainly build six or any other number of reactors, since any such statements would be premature." Mr. Ryabev mentions that, "The most realistic follow up of the cooperation would be to complete the second power generating unit of the Bushehr plant. But, so far, there are no corresponding agreements or documents." The First Atomic Energy Minister once again stresses that "there is no military cooperation between Russia and Iran in the nuclear area." He recalls that during a meeting with US officials in April, he proposed setting up a joint US-Russian expert group that would look into Russia's cooperation with Iran and what the US views as a matter of concern. Mr. Ryabev says, "Unfortunately, no such steps have been taken. There is only criticism, and when you ask for documents to prove this concern, no such documents are made available. Only an emotional call to stop this cooperation follows."
—"Russia to arrange return of spent nuclear fuel from Iran," Interfax, 12 August 2002, in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 13 August 2002.

15 August 2002
Evgeny Primakov, the head of the Russian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, states that, "Russia has helped and will help build the nuclear power plant in Bushehr." He also adds, "We are delivering reactors of the type the United States want to deliver to North Korea. We are working under supervision of IAEA. We exclude in our cooperation with Iran all the actions that might lead to the creation of the weapons of mass destruction."
—"Russian-Iranian Cooperation in the Nuclear Energy Area," Yadernaya Rossiya Segodnya, 15 August 2002.

15 August 2002
Ali Reza Jafarzadeh, the representative of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, an Iranian rebel group accuses the Iranian government of building two secret nuclear sites, a nuclear production plant and research lab at Natanz and a heavy water production plant at Arak. He says, "These two nuclear sites have been kept secret until now." NCRI is accused by the State Department of being the same group as Mujahedin-e Khalq, which killed several US citizens in Iran during the 1970s. Philip Reeker, a State Department spokesman said, "it's a terrorist organization. It's listed as such, designated as a foreign terrorist organization under US law."
—"Group: Iran's Nuke Program Growing," The Associated Press, 15 August 2002; in New York Times, <http://www.nytimes.com/>, 15 August 2002.

20 August 2002
Amir Hossein Zamani Nia arrives to Moscow for discussions with officials of the Russian Foreign Ministry on issues of mutual interest. Alexander Yakovenko, spokesman for the Russian Foreign Ministry, expresses hope that cooperation between Russia and Iran in economic and commercial fields would increase in the future. When asked about the statements of the US ambassador that Iran may use its nuclear cooperation with Russia for military uses, Mr. Yakovenko said that this claim is not important, and the important thing is that Russian officials have repeatedly declared their views on the subject stressing that nuclear cooperation between Moscow and Tehran is not military.
—"Iran-Russia to discuss non-proliferation, Middle East," IRNA, 20 August 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

21 August 2002
Alexander Rumyuantsev, Russian Atomic Energy Minister, says that Russia had signed all the necessary agreements to import the radio active fuel waste from the Iranian Bushehr plant. He states, "We will return all the spent nuclear fuel, and it will not fall into anybody's hands but Russia's....now, we are completely legitimate."
—"Russia to import Iranian nuclear fuel waste," AFP, 21 August 2002, in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 22 August 2002.

24 August 2002
Jayantha Dhanapala, the United Nation's Under-Secretary General for Disarmament Affairs, states in a press conference in the Uzbek capital that Iranian-Russian nuclear cooperation is under the supervision of the IAEA, which has yet to observe any violations. Mr. Dhanapala points out that the cooperation between the countries follows a routine economic deal aiming to access new technology.
—"UN official: Iran's nuclear program is peaceful," IRNA, 24 August 2002, in IranExpert, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>, 30 August 2002.

28 August 2002
Alexander Losyukov, Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister, says that Russia does not see anything threatening in its cooperation with Iran. He also mentions that cooperation with Iran is moving at a very good level, and that it corresponds to Russia wish to develop good neighborly relation with Iran.
—"Iran-Russia cooperation not a threat to other states – Russian official," IRNA, 29 August 2002, <http://www.irna.com/>.

1 September 2002
Atomstroiexport chief Viktor Kozlov states that Russian technicians began the assembly of the heavy equipment due to form part of the first reactor at Bushehr. He says "all the material envisaged in the contract [with Iran] has arrived by sea in the Iranian port [of Bushehr] on the Gulf." Mr. Kozlov, the chief of the state controlled firm that is charged with the implementation of the $800 million Russia-Iranian contract, says that 600 Russian technicians were currently in Bushehr and by the end of the year that their number would increase to about 2000. He states "they will be joined by their families and will live in a special village that has been set up for them near the site of the plant."
—"Russia begins assembly of heavy equipment at nuclear plant in Iran," Agence France Presse, 1 September 2002; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

2 September 2002
The Iranian Foreign Ministry announces that the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant is going on as scheduled and the facility will be commissioned on time. Hamid Reza Asefi, a spokesman of the Iran's Foreign Ministry, says that heavy equipment has arrived from Russia and that assembly work is underway in the reactor building of the plant.
—"Iran says Bushehr nuclear power plant develops well," Xinhua, 2 September 2002, in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

2 September 2002
The Atomic Energy Ministry of Russia has drawn up a plan for the return of spent nuclear fuel from the Iranian plant. Valery Lebedev, Russia's Atomic Energy Deputy Minister states, "Russia will strictly adhere to the principles of the International Atomic Energy Agency, under which spent nuclear fuel must be returned to the country supplying the fuel." The Ministry adds that spent fuel would be held for three years in a cooling tank at the Iranian plant before it is returned to Russia due to the requirement of its transport.
—"Russia drafts agreement on returning spent nuclear fuel from," Associated Press, 2 September 2002, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

4 September 2002
In an exclusive interview with RIA Novosti, Hossein Afarideh the Chairman of the Iranian Majlis Energy Commission says that Russian-Iranian energy cooperation is not limited to the building of the Bushehr plant. He mentions that Russia and Iran are currently discussing project "Tabas," an opportunity to build Iran's first thermal power plant using natural coal. Mr. Afarideh also adds that the Iranian energy sector has significant potential, and that in addition to Russia, other European companies are also taking an active part in the oil and gas sector development. He states "we are currently cooperating with Japanese, German, and Italian companies."
—"Russian-Iran energy cooperation not limited to building Bushehr nuclear power plant only," CNA, 4 September 2002, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

6 September 2002
Hossien Afarideh, Chairman of the Iranian Parliament's Energy Commission, says that the allegation of some politicians that the Russian-Iranian cooperation on nuclear energy for peaceful use has "a dual meaning are groundless." Mr. Afarideh emphasizes that "every one knows that the nuclear power plant in Bushehr is being built for energy production purposes only....Moreover, the construction of the power plant has been monitored by the IAEA experts."
—"Iran Denies Allegations of WMD Production," Yadernaya Rossiya Segodnya, 6 September 2002.

10 September 2002
Atomstroiexport General Director Victor Kozlov tells Interfax that Russia will ship a turbine to the Bushehr nuclear power plant that is currently under construction. He says, "The turbine has a capacity of 1,000 megawatt and was assembled at the Leningrad Metal Works. It has been loaded on a ship en route to Iran and will be delivered to the construction site in four weeks."
—"Russia To Ship Turbine To Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant in October," Interfax (Moscow), 10 September 2002.

11 September 2002
John Bolton, the US Under Secretary of State arrives in Moscow. According to the US ambassador to Russia, Alexander Vershbow, Mr. Bolton will meet with Russian officials to discuss the export of high technologies and weapons to Iran. Mr. Vershbow says that United States hopes that Russia will assure that it is controlling the export of sensitive technologies to Iran.
—"US Under Secretary of State Arrives in Moscow," Interfax (Moscow), 11 September 2002.

13 September 2002
During a meeting with the US Under Secretary of State John Bolton, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Georgiy Mamedov once again emphasizes that there was no basis for US concern about Russian-Iranian cooperation. During an interview following the meeting, Mr. Mamedov states, "Russian-Iranian cooperation on nuclear technology is totally peaceful, it is within the framework of international laws and regulations and it is also under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency. Thus, there is no basis for US official's concern about this issue....Despite this, the Americans always insist upon raising this issue at their consultation with us. This is despite the fact that Moscow has also expressed its concerns about Washington's nuclear cooperation with several countries that have their own nuclear arsenals....[I]n our talks with the American delegation, we said that Russia is an independent country and that our cooperation with Iran and other countries is aimed at furthering our own national interests."
—"Radio reports on US-Russian talks on Iranian nuclear programme," BBC, 13 September 2002,
in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 September 2002
A Russian official comments with regard to Washington opposition to Russia's nuclear cooperation with Iran: "It has become quite clear for Russia that the US is seeking to protect and expand its economic and political interests. Russia is also pursuing the same course and has adopted the same policy. For ages, Russia has had relations with these three countries and it would be foolish if Russia were to suddenly decide to sever all its contacts and matters with them merely for the sake of Washington's interests. Russia cannot give such a costly gift to Washington."
—Javad Tamimi, "Does Russia Prefer Iran Over the US?" Tehran Mardom Salari (Tehran), 15 September 2002; in FBIS document IAP20020924000037, 24 September 2002.

16 September 2002
Just before his departure to Vienna, US Deputy Secretary of State John Bolton meets with Russian Atomic Energy Minister Alexander Rumyanstsev at the Russian of Atomic Energy Ministry at Bolshaya Ordynka Street to discuss Russian-Iranian nuclear cooperation. He states after the meeting that, "the Russian side had presented the US with its proposals." Russian Minister Rumyanstev says in an interview regarding the disagreements between the United States and Russia, "the most important thing we have is an understanding that Russia and the United States must reach an agreement on this issue. The fact that it is not always clear how we will be able to agree on intricate matters is another matter. At any rate, we need a compromise that takes account of both countries' interests."
—"US Seen Offering To Compensate Russia if It Halts Nuclear Cooperation With Iran," Moscow Kommersant (Moscow), 16 September 2002; in FBIS document CEP20020916000279, 16 September 2002.

16 September 2002
Gholamreza Aqazadeh, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, in his address to the 46th general conference of the IAEA, says that Iran, as a vanguard of advocates of nuclear-free zones, played an active role in the establishment of a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East in 1974, in the UN General Assembly. He states, "The Islamic Republic of Iran, in line with the Islamic and humanitarian beliefs, has always fostered cooperation with the IAEA and has carried out all the scientific and research programs and civilian application of nuclear energy especially the Bushehr power plant in coordination with the international agency and its supervision." Mr. Aqazadeh says that in the next 20 years Iran has long-term plans to set up nuclear plants to bring its electricity output capacity of 6,000 megawatts. Mr. Aqazadeh mentions that Iran calls for transparency in nuclear programs and always condemns any country that may seek access to the weapons of mass destruction.
—"Iran, vanguard of nuclear-free zones, says Aqazadeh," IRNA (Tehran), 16 September 2002, <http://www.irna.com>.

17 September 2002
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of Iran's Atomic Energy Organization, met with Dr. Mohammed El Baradei, head of the International Atomic Energy Agency, and emphasized his willingness to continue close cooperation in the future. Mr. Aqazadeh says that Iran is willing to continue its cooperation with the IAEA in reaching an annual output of 6000MW of atomic energy and in conducting atomic sciences research work inside Iran. Mr. Aqazadeh emphasizes, "The expansion of Iran's atomic energy production capabilities is based on a precisely scientific, pre-planned basis, and Iran is determined to follow its objectives in full cooperation and harmony with the IAEA."
—"Iran's atomic energy organization head meets IAEA head in Geneva," IRNA (Tehran), 17 September 2002, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

Mid-September 2002
Viktor Kozlov, general director of Atomstroiexport, which serves as the marketing arm of Russia's atomic energy ministry (Minatom), emphasizes that the design of the Bushehr nuclear plant and Russia agreement with Iran to import the used fuel render the Bushehr project harmless. Mr. Kozlov says "Russia in principle is not interested in the proliferation of nuclear weapons... Russia is cooperating in the construction of the power plant here because it is absolutely sure that that is not the situation."
—Douglas Birch, "US Uneasy At Russian Company Building Nuclear Reactor In Iran," Baltimore Sun, 13 September 2002, in RANSAC Nuclear News, 18 September 2002, <http://www.ransac.org/>.

Mid-September 2002
To dismiss accusations that Minatom was not answerable to the Russia government, Viktor Kozlov, general director of Atomstroiexport, which serves as the marketing arm of Russia's atomic energy ministry (Minatom), assures that all the activities of Atomstroiexport are answerable to the Russian government. He said, "Our activities are completely under state control... we were able to start negotiations with Iran only after the state signed an intergovernmental agreement. We have no right to do anything without permission."
—Alexander Smotrov, "Moscow Announced The Inappropriateness Of US Sanctions Against Three Russian Defense Enterprises," RIA Novosti, 13 September 2002, in RANSAC Nuclear News, 18 September 2002, <http://www.ransac.org/>.

17 September 2002
A representative of the Russian Ministry of Atomic Energy tells ITAR-TASS that Russia is not going to curtail its nuclear power cooperation with Iran, in spite of such reports in some media outlets. The Russian representative said, "it will fully meet its commitments on the building of the first power unit of the nuclear power (NPP) in Bushehr....They say that the United States suggested to Russia exchanging of Iranian contracts for American contracts for the processing of nuclear fuel....The US suggestion is still a suggestion and nothing more, but we bear in mind that a bird in the hand is better than two in the bush."
—"Russia not to curtail nuclear power cooperation with Iran," IRNA (Tehran), 18 September 2002, <http://www.irna.com>.

18 September 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian Minister of Atomic Energy denies, media reports that Iran no longer has an interest in cooperation with Russia. He stated, "We have met with the Iranian delegation. The Iranian vice-president and the chairman of the Commission on Atomic Energy, Gholam Rea Agazadeh did not [say] anything like this either in a meeting with us or at the plenary session....[O]n the contrary, the Iranians publicly declared at the session that their nuclear activities are completely open and invited all IAEA member states to cooperate in implementing ambitious plans to create 6MW nuclear power plants in about 20 years."
—Yuri Koslov, "Official says Iran not to give up nuclear cooperation with Russia," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 18 September 2002, in FBIS document CEP20020918000405, 18 September 2002.

19 September 2002
An unnamed official of the Russian atomic energy ministry says that Russia has yet to receive Iran's agreement for Moscow to import back radioactive fuel waste from an Iranian nuclear power plant that Russia is building in Bushehr. The official states that a new clause to the Russian-Iranian accord on Bushehr project "has been presented to Iran....As soon as Iran makes a judgment on documents concerning the return of spent nuclear fuel, the clause will be added to the agreement."
—"Russia admits Iran dragging feet on nuclear waste agreement," AFP, 19 September 2002, <http://www.iranexpert.com/>.

22 September 2002
According to an unidentified Minatom spokesman quoted by Interfax, Iran has still not signed the Spent Nuclear Fuel agreement, which was prepared last month by the Atomic Ministry. The agreement dictated that all spent fuel from the Bushehr reactor will be sent back to Russia. The unidentified official says that "Russia will not supply nuclear fuel to the Bushehr nuclear power plant until an agreement on the [spent fuel's] return to Russia is signed." Russia's Atomic Minister Alexander Rumyantsev is quoted as saying that Iran was not being uncooperative regarding Bushehr with Russia. He states "on the contrary, at the general conference the Iranians proclaimed the complete openness of their nuclear activities."
—Charles Digges, "Minatom Official Admits Iran is Hedging on Returning Bushehr SNF," Bellona, 23 September 2002, <http://www.bellona.no/>.

23 September 2002
Alexander Rumyanstev, Russian Minister of Atomic Energy, says that Russia will continue its nuclear cooperation with Iran in spite of US officials' calls not to do so, and that the Bushehr plant will come on stream by the end of 2003. Mr. Rumyanstev states that Russian experts will remain in Iraq until the completion and activation of the Bushehr power plant, and he reiterated that Russia has signed a protocol to import the used nuclear fuel from Bushehr back to Russia.
—"Bushehr power plant to come on stream by end of year 2003," IRNA (Tehran), 23 September 2002, <http://www.irna.com>.

23 September 2002
Russian Defense Minister Sergey Ivanov says that Moscow is determined to continue its cooperation with Tehran while viewing its economic interests as well as its obligations as for the nonproliferation principle. Mr. Ivanov tells reporters in Madrid that Russia is an independent decisionmaker in the sphere of military technical cooperation with countries such as North Korea and Iran. Furthermore, Mr. Ivanov states that Russia only exports to Iran the type of weapons that cannot have a destabilizing influence on the region; he says, "...the talk is about deliveries of defensive weapons – air defense means, armored personnel carriers, anti tank and small weapons."
—"Russian official: Moscow to continue cooperation with Iran," IRNA (Tehran), 23 September 2002, <http://www.irna.com>.

23 September 2002
Alexander Rumyantsev, Russian Atomic Energy Minister, says that Russia may launch the Bushehr nuclear power plant by the end of 2003. He states, "aside from the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Russia has no nuclear programs with Iran... we do not plan to close this project, and we will bring it to the end."
More so, the minister states that it was very difficult for the Russians to decide to finalize the construction of the Bushehr plant, which was started by the German company Siemens. He says, "We had to work on a foreign project, practically without blueprints. In addition, some of the German equipment did not fit the parameters of the Russian unit, and we had to order new equipment to Russian plants." Furthermore, Mr. Rumyantsev mentions that two protocols signed by the Russian and Iranian ministries in October 1998 and June 2002 stipulate the obligatory return of the spent nuclear fuel from Iran to Russia. He adds, "we think th