1991
Pakistani General Mirza Aslam Beg proposes to create a strategic alliance with Iran, including the sharing of nuclear weapons technology. The plan is scrapped by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan and Iran currently receive a large amount of nuclear-related assistance from China, raising the possibility of three-way nuclear trade in the future.
—Leonard Spector, "Islamic Bomb West's Long-Term Nightmare," Washington Times, 19 January 1994, p. A19.

1991-1992
Iran successfully recruits 14 Russian nuclear scientists to work in Iran. Iran attempts to recruit Vladmir Kubov and Philip Gurkhanian from the Kurchatov Institute, Arsen Hamidiadeh from Kazakhstan, and Aleksandr Ahmediadeh from Turkmenistan. Six experts and scientists from the former Soviet Union are working at the Karaj nuclear site. Others are working at the Gorgan site, including Drs. Larichenkov and Ayshrov, both ethnic Russians. One of the 14 scientists has been identified as Khaled Nickov
—"Libya and Iran Seek Ex-Soviet Scientists," Science, 15 March 1996, p. 1485; in Mark Gorwitz, "Foreign Assistance to Iran's Nuclear and Missile Programs; Emphasis on Russian Assistance: Analysis and Assessment," Center for Nonproliferation Studies, Unpublished Report, October 1998; Yossef Bodansky, "Iran Acquires Nuclear Weapons And Moves To Provide Cover To Syria," Defense and Foreign Affairs Strategic Policy, February 1992; in Mark Gorwitz, "Foreign Assistance to Iran's Nuclear and Missile Programs; Emphasis on Russian Assistance: Analysis and Assessment," Center for Nonproliferation Studies, Unpublished Report, October 1998; "Iran's Nuclear Weapons Program," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992, pp. 1-5, 7; in Mark Gorwitz, "Foreign Assistance to Iran's Nuclear and Missile Programs; Emphasis on Russian Assistance: Analysis and Assessment," Center for Nonproliferation Studies, Unpublished Report, October 1998.

January 1991
Iran steps up efforts to buy nuclear technology abroad at the start of the U.N. offensive against Iraq. According to a US State Department official, Iran is researching uranium enrichment methods and probably has "agents in Europe are scouring the market" for enrichment technology. The United States is concerned that Iran may acquire or already has acquired an unsafeguarded enrichment facility for which it might get parts from Eastern Europe.
—Douglas Frantz, Los Angeles Times, 31 October 1991, p. A4; Jim Mann, Los Angeles Times, 27 January 1991, pp. A1, A28-A29; PPNN, International Herald Tribune.

January 1991
Germany says it will deny requests from Siemens and from Iran to approve export licenses for components for the Bushehr reactors in Iran. Siemens denies reports that it will rebuild the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 7 February 1991, pp. 15-16; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 February 1991, pp. 8-9; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 2 May 1991, pp. 17-18; Jim Mann "Iran's Nuclear Plans Worry Us Officials" Los Angeles Times, 27 January 1991, pp. A1, A28-A29.

January 1991
The International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) awards Iran 940 million French francs as part of the settlement with the Eurodif consortium. The ICC also orders Framatome of France to pay 550 million francs to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran as reimbursement for the 271 million francs Framatome was paid for the Darkhovin reactors, plus interest.
—Nuclear News, February 1991, p. 48; Nucleaonics Week, 28 February 1991, p. 15; Nuclear Engineering International, April 1991, p. 8.

February 1991
Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Velayati goes to Germany to discuss with German officials the completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant. German Environment Minister Klaus Topfer goes to Iran to inspect the plant. [Note: See 30 June 1991, 13 January 1994.]
—"Iran Pledges To Complete Nuclear Plant," Middle East Defense News, 29 April 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

February 1991
Iran negotiates the purchase of a 10MW nuclear research reactor subsequently installed at the Moallem Kalayeh site. [Note: Construction began on the Moallem Kalayah site in 1987, and a 10MW Indian reactor was planned for the site. See 1987 entry.].
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

February 1991
India and Iran exchange nuclear scientists. The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran negotiates to purchase nuclear technology or expertise from India following a 1 February 1991 announcement by the Indian Atomic Energy Commission that India will seek to export its nuclear technology.
—Shekhar Hattangadi, Nucleonics Week, 7 February 1991, p. 17; Nuclear News, March 1991, p. 56.

February 1991
Iran's Minister of Foreign Affairs denies that Iraq moved highly enriched uranium or nuclear equipment to Iran during the Persian Gulf War.
—Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 February 1991, pp. 8-9; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 14 February 1991, pp. 2-3; Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 14 October 1991, pp. 10-11.

February 1991
Iran's foreign minister requests West Germany to authorize shipment of components for the two unfinished nuclear reactors at Bushehr.
—IRNA (Tehran), 4 March 1991; in Nuclear Developments, 19 March 1991, pp. 21-22.

7 February 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that Spain's Equipos Nucleares, a Siemens' licensee, is interested in receiving a subcontract from Siemens to complete Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 7 February 1991, pp. 15-16.

7 February 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that Khalil Musavi, Iran's ambassador to the International Atomic Energy Agency, states that a Soviet-Iran nuclear cooperation agreement signed in 1990 will not lead to an agreement by the Soviet Union to complete the Bushehr reactors.
—Mark Hibbs, "German Officials Say Government May Not Let Bushehr Be Finished," Nucleonics Week, 7 February 1991, pp. 15-16.

28 February 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that a French court has blocked payment of $110 million from Framatome to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. Framatome was told to pay the money by the International Chamber of Commerce Court of Arbitration in Lausanne. The money is the down payment of 271 million francs, plus interest, paid by Iran for construction of two reactors at the Karun nuclear power plant. Iran cancelled the contract for construction after the revolution in 1979. The French companies Framatome, Alsthom, and Spie-Batignolles have filed a $5 billion franc suit against Iran for breach of contract. [Note: See January 1991 entry for the ICC's ruling against Framatome. See August 1991 for the court's subsequent ruling against Iran for breach of contract.]
—"France," Nucleonics Week, 28 February 1991, p. 15; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

4 March 1991
The German company Kraftwerk Union (KWU) finalizes plans to complete two reactors begun at Bushehr in 1976.
—"An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

11 March 1991
The Islamic Republic News Agency reports that West German firm Kraftwerk Union will resume completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in the "near future."
—"Work To Resume On Abandoned Iranian Nuclear Plant," Associated Press, 11 March 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

22 April 1991
Noremly Bin Muslim, deputy director of the International Atomic Energy Agency inspects several projects of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI). Bin Muslim meets with AEOI head Reza Amrollahi and discusses IAEA cooperation with Iran.
—"IAEA Official Tours Nuclear Facilities," Nuclear Developments, 20 May 1991, p. 20.

29 April 1991
Middle East Defense News reports that Siemens has acknowledged it approached the West German government in 1987 for permission to allow its subsidiary, Kraftwerk Union, to rebuild the Bushehr nuclear power plant. But Siemens says it has "not approached the government since then." Iran has given KWU new proposals for completing the plant, but nothing has been agreed upon, according to the report. Siemens says it believes Iran now wants a gas turbine plant rather than the light water, low-enriched uranium plant, because it is cheaper.
—"Iran Pledges To Complete Nuclear Plant," Middle East Defense News, 29 April 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

29 April 1991
Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, meets with Mexican Energy Minister Fernando Hiriart in Mexico City. Iran and Mexico sign a nuclear cooperation agreement that calls for the exchange of scientific and technical information about nuclear energy and for cooperation in nuclear security.
—"Energy Cooperation Agreement With Iran--With Emphasis on Nuclear Energy," Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 29 April 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

May 1991
Mohammad Hussein Mahlujchi, Iranian Mines and Metals minister, goes to Germany to order from Kraftwerk Union a $1.4 billion natural gas power plant; construction is to begin in 1992. [Note: Kraftwerk Union is the company that was building the Bushehr nuclear power plant.]
—"Germany Renounces Nuclear Plant In Iran, Considers Pesticides," Middle East Defense News, 22 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

May 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that the German government denies that it favors allowing Siemens to supply new reactors rather than complete the heavily damaged, uncompleted reactors at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. The German Federal Ministry of Research and Technology and the Federal Ministry of Economics favor new reactors, according to the report. Engineers from Siemens and the German reactor inspectorate Technischer Ueberwachungsverein (TUeV) say that 5 to 8 billion DM would be necessary to repair the reactors.
—Mark Hibbs, "Bonn Will Decline Teheran Bid To Resuscitate Bushehr Project," Nucleonics Week, 2 May 1991, pp. 17-18.

May 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that Iran has a nuclear cooperation agreement with Pakistan and secret nuclear agreements with South Africa and China, which may reflect nuclear weapons ambitions on the part of Iran. European officials express concern that Iran might seek Pakistan's assistance in enriching uranium obtained under a secret nuclear cooperation agreement from South Africa in 1988-89. [Note: See 1988-1989 entry regarding South African cooperation.]
—Mark Hibbs, "Bonn Will Decline Teheran Bid To Resuscitate Bushehr Project" Nucleonics Week, 2 May 1991, pp. 17-18.

May 1991
US officials claim that China and Pakistan are aiding Iran in the development of a nuclear bomb.
—Bill Gertz, Washington Times, 30 May 1991, pp. A1, A11.

2 May 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that sources in Europe believe Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), does not control all activities at AEOI. US sources claim that Iran's secret efforts in nuclear development are organized outside of the AEOI.
—Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 2 May 1991, pp. 17-18; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 4 September 1991, pp. 7-8.

11 May 1991
First Iranian Vice President Hassan Habibi inaugurates the Nuclear Medical Research Center at Karaj. The center is located northwest of Tehran near an Air Force base and large military industrial complex, and it is staffed with Chinese and Russian technicians according to Western intelligence. This center is supposed to be civilian nuclear facility devoted to nuclear medicine and agriculture. A cyclotron accelerator from Belgium's Ion Beam Applications has been installed at the site. [Note: See 1991 and February 1992 entries.]
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

June 1991
The German government announces that it will not permit Siemens-Kraftwerk Union to complete Iran's Bushehr reactors, and that Empresarios Agrupados of Spain, a Siemens' licensee, will also be prohibited from completing the reactors. Germany has paid Iran 300 million DM for parts not delivered, but Iran may seek 5 billion DM in damages. The German delegation says the reason for not allowing continuation of the project is because of the lack of security at the plant. Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says Iran needs to spend $30 million to secure the site for construction, while Iran would lose $10 billion if the plant is not finished. [Note: See 29 June 1991 entry for Iran's response to the decision.]
—Washington Times, 2 September 1991, p. A2; Mary Gordon, San Francisco Chronicle, 28 August 1991, p. A2; Mary Gordon, Orange County Register, 28 August 1991, p. D6; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 4 July 1991, pp. 7-8; IRNA (Tehran), 2 July 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 24 July 1991, p. 16; Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran First Program Network (Tehran), 10 July 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 24 July 1991, pp. 17-18; Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12; Ralph Joseph, "Iran Pledges To Build Nuclear Plant Without German Help," UPI, 7 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

June 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that Italy's foreign trade minister says that Italy will not allow export of steam generators built by Breda [Termomeccanica, later Ansaldo] for Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant. Ansaldo transferred the four steam generators to Siemens of Germany, but they will remain in Italy. The generators were built by Italy's Breda for Iran's Bushehr nuclear plant, but Italy's Foreign Trade Minister Vito Lattanzio says Italy has no intention of exporting them. [Note: See mid-1976 entry on the contract for the generators. Also see 11 November 1993 entry on the seizure of the equipment by Italian customs.]
—"Italy: Bushehr Steam Generators Transferred", Nucleonics Week, 6 June 1991, p. 16

14 June 1991
Mohammad Mohaddessin, director of the International Affairs Section of the Iranian opposition group Mojahedin-e Khaleq, says Iran has spent $200 million on its nuclear weapons program since March 1990. [Note: The Mohajedin-e Khlaq is known to make exaggerated claims about the Iranian government and its nuclear program. See 30 June 1991 for other claims by Mohaddessin.]
—Ruth Sinai, "Iran Said Trying To Develop Nuclear Weapons," Associated Press, 14 June 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 June 1991
In response to accusations made by the Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization, Iran's First Vice President Hasan Habibi says Iran's nuclear program was exclusively for peaceful purposes. This is the policy of President Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani's government. [Note: See 14 June 1991 entry for allegations by the Mojahedin.]
—"Habibi Says Nuclear Programs for Peaceful Purposes Only," Proliferation Issues, 24 July 1991, p. 15.

29 June 1991
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) criticizes Germany for not allowing completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant by a German company. "Iran cannot remain indifferent to this decision," says the statement from the AEOI. "Rather than halt work on the project for security reasons and suggest the building of a gas-powered station, the German government should have proposed modernizing the Bushehr facility." German Economic Minister Juergen Moelleman, on a trip to Tehran, tries to persuade Iranian officials from rebuilding the Bushehr plant. [Note: See June 1991 entry for Germany's announcement that it will not to allow Siemens-Kraftwerk Union to continue the project.]
—"Iran Slams German Decision To Drop Work On Bushehr Nuclear Station," Agence France Presse, 29 June 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

30 June 1991
The Boston Globe reports that on his recent trip to the United States, Mohammed Mohaddessin, foreign policy spokesman for the Mojahedin Iranian opposition group, says Iran is seeking nuclear weapons. "What the regime is doing," he says, "is concentrating on research in order to develop nuclear weapons themselves. They are looking for technical assistance, for materials." He says, however, Iran is far from developing nuclear technology. He claims that Iran has created a special unit of the Republican Guards to secretly develop nuclear weapons out of sight of the International Atomic Energy Agency. "The regime is doing their utmost to get assistance from Western Europe," he says. "They have had extensive discussions and negotiations concerning this matter with France, Italy, and Germany. They have sent a number of their experts and researchers to China for training purposes and to obtain expertise." The Chinese foreign ministry denies a report that an Iranian delegation was in China to discuss nuclear technology. Spokesmen for the White House and US State Department say there is no proof that China has sold nuclear technology to Iran. [Note: The Mohajedin-e Khlaq is known to make exaggerated claims about the Iranian government and its nuclear program. See 14 June 2001 for other claims by Mohaddessin. See February 1991 and 13 January 1994 for other meetings between Iran and Germany.]
—Mary Curtius, "Dissidents Say Tehran Is Pursuing Nuclear Arms," The Boston Globe, 30 June 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

30 June 1991
Juergen Moellemann, the German economic minister, meets with Iranian officials to discuss German-Iranian trade. The meeting may have included talks on the Bushehr reactor, which was to be built by Siemens-Kraftwerk Union of Germany. Germany halted work on the project during the Iran-Iraq War, and the German government now claims the reactor cannot be completed because its technology is outdated and unsafe.
—"Dispute With Germany Over Nuclear Plant" Proliferation Issues, 24 July 1991, p. 16.

Late June 1991
During meetings with the US Congress, the Mojahedin-e Khalq, an Iranian opposition group, accuses the Iranian government of trying to buy or develop nuclear weapons with the help of China. Both Iran and China deny the allegation. The Chinese Foreign Ministry also denies reports that Iran sent emissaries to Beijing to purchase Chinese nuclear weapons technology. On 7 October the Mojahedin says that an Iranian delegation of scientists traveled to China and North Korea to discuss "expanding deliveries of nuclear and ballistic missile technologies." [Note: The Mohajedin-e Khlaq is known to make exaggerated claims about the Iranian government and its nuclear program.]
—Salam (Tehran), 20 June 1991, p. 12; in Proliferation Issues, 24 July 1991, pp. 15-16; San Jose Mercury News, 30 June 1991, p. 21A; Xinhua (Beijing), 27 July 1991; in Nuclear Developments, 23 April 1991, p. 2; Kenneth R. Timmerman, Wall Street Journal, 24 July 1991, p. A10.

July 1991
Chinese experts are allegedly assisting the Iranians with their laser enrichment research at Moallem Kalayeh, at the city of Qazvin.
—Tehran Radio, 3 August 1991, JPRS-TND-91-013, 2 August 1991.

July 1991
During talks with Iran's President Hashemi Rafsanjani, Chinese Prime Minister Li Peng agrees to provide expertise and technology to complete nuclear reactors begun by France and Germany, according to sources in Iran's government. Iran announces that China will assist in rebuilding the Bushehr reactor but continues negotiations with Germany's Siemens. [Note: See October 1991, 31 October 1991, 19 September 1994, and 29 September 1994 for additional information on China's role in the construction of Bushehr.]
—Sawt al-Kuwayt al-Duwali (London), 11 July 1991, pp. 1, 4; in Proliferation Issues, 8 August 1991, pp. 19-20; "Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

July 1991
Brazilian Infrastructure Minister Joao Santana says that Brazil is discussing the possible sale of equipment from the Angra-3 nuclear power plant for use in Iran's Bushehr reactor. The German government would have to approve any retransfer of the US equipment and technology Germany supplied for Angra-3, worth $150 million. [Note: See 7 July and 30 November 1991 for additional information on this topic.]
—Christina Lamb, Financial Times, 5 December 1991, p. 6; Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

1 July 1991
In response to reports that Iran was negotiating to buy nuclear weapons technology from China, China says it does not "advocate, encourage, or practice nuclear proliferation, nor does it help other countries to develop nuclear weapons."
—"China (People's Republic)" Milavnews, July 1991, pp. 6-7.

7 July 1991
After meeting with Chinese Premier Li Ping, Iranian President Ali Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani says Iran will complete the Bushehr nuclear power plant despite the German government's refusal to allow a German company to take part in the project. "We are determined to complete this major project, and will do so with the help of God," Rafsanjani says in a letter to the head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran. [Note: See June 1991 entry for Germany's announcement that it will not allow continuation of the Bushehr project.]
—Ralph Joseph, "Iran Pledges To Build Nuclear Plant Without German Help," UPI, 7 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; "An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

7 July 1991
Joao Santana, Brazil's infrastructure minister, visits Tehran to discuss the sale of $150 million worth of German-made nuclear equipment from Brazil's Angra III power station.
—"An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

8 July 1991
Talks break down between Iranian Foreign Minister Ali Akbar Velayati and French officials over repayment of French debt to Iran after Iran demanded access to enriched uranium from Eurodif's enrichment plant in Drome, southern France. France refuses Iran's request for enriched uranium, but the Teheran Times denies the request was ever made. The dispute stems from the Shah's $1 billion investment or loan to the French Energy Commissariat for the construction of Eurodif's plant. France has paid back $630 million, but Iran and France disagree on the total debt France owes from interest on the debt.
—William Dawkins, "French-Iranian Talks On Nuclear Loans Suspended," Financial Times (London), 8 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; Charles Hoots, Nucleonics Week, 18 July 1991, pp. 5-6; Charles Hoots, Nuclear Fuel, 22 July 1991, pp. 5-6; San Francisco Chronicle, 14 September 1991, p. A17; New York Times, 5 July 1991, p. A5; Louise Lief with S.J. Hedges, U.S. News & World Report, 25 November 1991, p. 42; Voice of Mojahed, [Ed.: clandestine], 24 October 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 7 November 1991, p. 23; Scheherazade Daneshkhu, Financial Times, 17 October 1991, p. 4.

10 July 1991
An Iranian delegation of scientists and technicians go to China and North Korea to discuss buying nuclear and missile technology, according to Iranian exile sources. One reason for the trip, according to Middle East Defense News, was to show France that Iran could find another source of uranium. [Note: See 8 July 1991 for France's refusal to give Iran access to enriched uranium.]
—"The China-Iran Nuclear Cloud," Middle East Defense News, 22 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

12 July 1991
Rasfanjani criticizes France for not supplying highly enriched uranium to Iran, and says Iran can get it elsewhere, such as China and North Korea. [Note: On 8 July 1991, France refused to give Iran access to enriched uranium. See also 10 July 1991.]
—"The China-Iran Nuclear Cloud," Middle East Defense News, 22 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 July 1991
Nucleonics Week reports that Iran's President, Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani expressed interest in restarting the country's nuclear program.
—Charles Hoots, "Iran And France Close To End Of Nuclear Dispute, But Not Yet," Nucleonics Week, 18 July 1991, pp. 5-6.

22 July 1991
Middle East Defense News reports that the Mojahedin-e Khalq, Iranian opposition claims that parts of the 5MW research reactor in Tehran have been moved to the Isfahan nuclear research center. The opposition also claims that the Revolutionary Guards have a secret nuclear weapons center at Moallem Kalayeh, north of Qazvin in the Elburz Mountains. The opposition also claims that Iran has created a special unit within the Ministry of Defense, led by two nuclear experts, "Dr. Nari and Dr. Musavi," to research nuclear weapons and acquire nuclear technology from other countries. The article says US intelligence sources believe Rafsanjani has decided on China as its primary partner in the nuclear field. Chinese experts are now working at the Qazvin nuclear research center. [Note: The Mohajedin-e Khlaq is known to make exaggerated claims about the Iranian government and its nuclear program.]
—"The China-Iran Nuclear Cloud," Middle East Defense News, 22 July 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

August 1991
The International Court of Arbitration rules that Iran owes French firms $710 million for the cancellation of a contract for two 900MW pressurized water reactors, which were under construction at Darkhovin. [Note: In January 1991, the court ruled French firms had to pay Iran, and on 28 February, a French court blocked the payment. See January and 28 February 1991.]
—Nuclear News, November 1991, pp. 26, 123.

3 August 1991
Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says "Iran is not capable of making atomic bombs. Our objective in promoting nuclear industries," he says, "is merely its peaceful use specially in the field of atomic energy and its application in agriculture and medicine."
—"Atomic Energy Head Amrollahi Says 'Iran Is Not Capable Of Making Atomic Bombs,'" BBC Summary Of World Broadcasts, 5 August 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

28 August 1991
The Orange County Register reports that more that 300 export licenses for computers to be sent to Iran have been granted by the United States, for a total value of $138 million, including a license for a $130,000 oscilloscope. [Note: See 29 August 1991.]
—Mary Gordon, "US Exported Millions in Equipment to Iran, Syria," Orange County Register, 28 August 1991, p. D6.

29 August 1991
Two Iranian citizens, Don Danesh and Reza Amiri, are arrested by federal agents in Newport Beach, CA, for allegedly shipping to Iran portable oscilloscopes, which can be used in analyzing nuclear tests. [Note: See 28 August 1991. See 30 March 1992 for their conviction.]
—Dean Takahashi, "Pair Held For Allegedly Selling Gear To Iran," Los Angeles Times, 29 August 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

September 1991
Syria's Chief of Staff, Hikmat Shahabi, tours Iran's nuclear facilities.
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News (Middle East Defense News), August 1992, p. 43.

September 1991
US satellite photographs show major construction on a plutonium production plant and a large number of Chinese technicians at Isfahan. [Note: See 21 January 1990.]
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

September 1991
US satellite images show early construction stages at the site of a research reactor to be supplied to the Isfahan nuclear research complex by China under a June 1990 contract. A US official says the allegation, stemming from the Mojahedin-e Khalq, is "not true" since US satellite imagery "shows nothing on the ground, except for what Iran has declared to the IAEA." [Note: See February 1992 for the IAEA visit to the construction site. Note: The Mohajedin-e Khlaq is known to make exaggerated claims about the Iranian government and its nuclear program.]
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News (Middle East Defense News), August 1992, p. 43; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 20 August 1992, pp. 7-8.

September 1991
Construction begins at Isfahan on a 27kW research reactor sold by China to Iran. [Note: The reactor goes critical on March 1994. See entry. This reactor should not be confused with a 27MW reactor also proposed for sale by China for installation at Isfahan. See 21 January 1990, 14 March 1990, June 1990, November 1991, and 1 June 1995 for entries on the 27 MW reactor.]
—Mark D. Skootsky, "U.S. Nuclear Policy Toward Iran," 1 June 1995.

September 1991
Cuba and Iran sign an agreement to exchange information on nuclear technology. Fidel Castro Diaz-Balart, the head of Cuba's nuclear energy program, finalizes the agreement during a visit to Iran.
—Ann MacLachlan and Charles Hoots, Nucleonics Week, 10 October 1991, pp. 2-3; Tele Rebelde Network (Havana), 1 October 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 29 October 1991, p. 30; Tele Rebelde Network (Havana), 26 September 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 29 October 1991, p. 30.

1 September 1991
Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says Iran will have several nuclear power plants in the next ten years.
—"Nuclear Power Plants To Be Established," BBC Summary Of World Broadcasts, 10 September 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 September 1991
Mohammed Javad Larijani, a member of Iran's National Security Council, says nuclear weapons have been "erased from Iran's policy." He notes that President Rafsanjani has repeatedly called for a nuclear-weapon-free zone in the Middle East.
—William Claiborne, "U.S.-Iranian Cooperation Seen Possible; Aide To Rafsanjani Says Some Obstacles Still Block Talks On Range Of Interests," Washington Post, 18 September 1991.

24 September 1991
At the 35th general session of the International Atomic Energy Agency, Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says the "peaceful use of atomic energy is the right of all nations, and provided the entire control and inspection measures and systems have been checked out, no country should be deprived of that right." He says Iran will complete the Bushehr nuclear power plant "through any means possible, even through purchasing and reordering the project's withheld spare parts." He says Iran "expects the IAEA to cooperate in all stages including that of implementation of the construction and activation of the said plant."
—"Construction of Bushehr Nuclear Plant To Be Completed," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 24 September 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

October 1991
A delegation from Syria arrives in Iran to begin negotiations on a possible Iranian-Syrian nuclear pact.
—"An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

October 1991
India offers to sell a 10MW research reactor to Iran. The two countries also discuss a nuclear cooperation agreement, and Iran has requested India's helping building a pressurized heavy water reactor. Iran is reportedly interested in a 30MW reactor.
—IRNA (Tehran) 2 October 1991; in Proliferation Issues, 29 October 1991, p. 35; Warren H. Donnelly and Zachary S. Davis, "Iran's Nuclear Activities and the Congressional Response," CRS Issue Brief, Congressional Research Service, The Library of Congress, 20 May 1992.

2 October 1991
Iran is ordered by an arbitration court in Switzerland to pay 4.06 billion francs to a French consortium of Framatome, Alcatel Alsthom, and Spie-Batignolles for canceling a contract to build a nuclear power plant in Darkhovin. [See the January, 28 February, 8 July, October 1991 entries for other developments in the loan dispute.]
—"Iran Told To Pay French Nuclear Consortium 4.06 Billion For Damages," AFX News, 2 October 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

10 October 1991
Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Alaeddin Borujerdi meets with Indian Prime Minister Narasimha Rao in New Delhi to discuss the purchase of 10MW reactor. [Note: See October 1991 entry for more on Iran-Indian nuclear cooperation.]
—"An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

13 October 1991
Al Ahram of Cairo reports Iran has bought five tactical nuclear missiles from Kazakhstan. [Note: Later reports say only three missiles were involved and that the warheads came from the Semipalatinsk complex. Note: See December 1991.]
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News, August 1992, p. 52.

19 October 1991
The Iranian embassy in India calls "baseless" reports of nuclear cooperation between Iran and China. "Iran like India is in favor of nuclear disarmament in the world," the statement says. The Chinese Foreign Ministry denies a report in the Washington Times on 16 October that said China was helping Iran build a nuclear reactor as part of a nuclear weapons program.
—"Iran Denies Alleged Nuclear Collaboration With China," Xinhua, 19 October 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; "China Denies Helping Iran Build Nuclear Reactor," Associated Press, 19 October 1991, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

22 October 1991
The French Foreign Minister Roland Dumas says Iran's demand for enriched uranium from France is the main obstacle to solving a longtime debt dispute between the two countries. "There is a still a major point which is the right or not to have uranium," Dumas says. "I think that we shall find a formula." [Note: See 8 July 1991.]
—"Uranium Poses Main Problem To Settlement Of Dispute With Iran: Dumas," Agence France Presse, 22 October 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

23 October 1991
In an interview published in Iran's Abrar newspaper, Iranian Deputy President Ayatollah Mohajerani says that because Israel "has nuclear facilities, the Muslim states, too, should be equipped with the same capacity," adding that "therefore Muslims should strive to go ahead" with nuclear development. Soon after Mohajerani's statement, the Iranian United Nations mission denies that the country has a nuclear weapons development program.
—IRNA (Tehran), 23 October 1991; in FBIS Document JPRS-TND-91-017, 7 November 1991, pp. 23-24; Milavnews, November 1991, p. 3.

25 October 1991
Iran and France sign a $1 billion agreement settling a financial dispute over Iran's involvements in the Eurodif uranium enrichment plant. France will pay $1 billion to cover the balance of repayment plus interest, and Iran will retain a small share of the Eurodif consortium. This may cancel the possibility of reimbursement to French firms for claimed damages cause by Iran's cancellation of a nuclear plant contract.
—R. Jeffrey Smith, Washington Post, 30 October 1991, pp. A1, A20; Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 31 October 1991, p. A9; Wall Street Journal, 18 November 1991, p. A17; "An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

30 October 1991
Gary Milhollin, director of the Wisconsin Project on Nuclear Arms Control, says China is supplying Iran with uranium-enriching equipment. "There is no question that the supplies far exceed the needs of Iran's civilian nuclear industry," he says.
—Simon Tisdall, "China 'Helps Iran To Make N-Bombs,'" The Guardian (London), 31 October; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

31 October 1991
Chinese President Yang Shangkun visits the Chinese-built nuclear research center at Isfahan in Iran. He also visits the Darkhovin facility in Ahvaz. He promises technical assistance to Iran to complete the Darkhovin and Bushehr reactors.
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Chinese President Visits Nuclear Center In Iran," Middle East Defense News, 25 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

Late October 1991
A US National Intelligence Estimate concludes that Iran is seeking to develop a nuclear weapons capability, indicating concern for Iran's cooperation with China. The report adds that Iran's nuclear program appears disorganized and in its early stages. US Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Richard H. Solomon acknowledges that China sold nuclear-related technologies to Iran despite previous assurances from China that it would not do so.
—R. Jeffrey Smith, Washington Post, 30 October 1991, pp. A1, A20; Elaine Sciolino, New York Times, 31 October 1991, p. A9; Wall Street Journal, 18 November 1991, p. A17.

Late October-early November 1991
China acknowledges that it has cooperated with Iran's peaceful nuclear program. The Chinese statement comes after US Assistant Secretary of State Richard H. Solomon testifies before a Senate panel that US intelligence agencies believed China has sold nuclear equipment to Iran.
—"China Releases Details Of Nuclear Program With Iran," 4 November 1991, Associated Press; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

November 1991
Iran and Pakistan sign an agreement for joint development of nuclear weapons, according to Iran's Mojahedin-e Khalq opposition group. The group says Iran will provide $5 billion in funding; Pakistan will supply expertise in uranium enrichment and other areas. Pakistan denies the reports.
—Al-Diyar (Beirut), 12 January 1992; in Proliferation Issues, 14 February 1992, pp. 13-14; Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran First Program Network (Tehran), 12 January 1992; in Proliferation Issues, 31 January 1992, p. 31.

November 1991
India signs an agreement to supply Iran with a 10MW research reactor, as part of a memorandum of understanding on scientific and technical cooperation. The reactor is to be located at Moallem Kalayeh, a secret uranium enrichment complex near Qazvin. Under pressure from the United States and other countries, India cancels its agreement.
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News (Middle East Defense News), August 1992, p. 44; Financial Times, 21 November 1991, p. 6; Steve Coll, Washington Post, 15 November 1991, pp. A33, A39; William Drozdiak, Washington Post, 22 November 1991, pp. A35, A38; Neel Patri, Nucleonics Week, 28 November 1991, p. 8; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 November 1991, pp. 2-3; Mark Hibbs, Neel Patri, and Neal Sandler, Nuclear Fuel, 25 November 1991, pp. 8-9.

November 1991
China sells Iran a small nuclear reactor apparently for training and research and installs uranium enrichment equipment at Darkhovin in Ahvaz.
—Kathy Wilhelm, "China May Sell Nuclear Reactors to Bangladesh, Egypt and Iran," The Associated Press, 30 July 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News, August 1992, p. 44; "Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

November 1991
China confirms that it signed contracts to sell an electromagnetic separator [calutron] and a mini-reactor to Iran. Both Iran and China claim the reactor and calutron are to be used for peaceful purposes.
—New York Times, 19 December 1991, p. A11; George J. Church, Time, 16 December 1991 pp. 42, 47-48; Neel Patri, Nucleonics Week, 28 November 1991, p. 8; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 November 1991, pp. 2-3; Mark Hibbs, Neel Patri, and Neal Sandler, Nuclear Fuel, 25 November 1991, pp. 8-9; Louise Lief with S.J. Hedges, U.S. News & World Report, 25 November 1991, p. 42; Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

November 1991
Hans Blix, director general of the International Atomic Energy Agency, says he has "no cause for concern" regarding Iran's attempts to acquire nuclear technology. But he says the IAEA may begin implementing special inspections for problem nations, with Iran as a possible test case.
—Neel Patri, Nucleonics Week, 28 November 1991, p. 8; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 November 1991, pp. 2-3; Louise Lief with S.J. Hedges, U.S. News & World Report, 25 November 1991, p. 42.

November 1991
After being pressured by the United States, China holds off on its offer to sell Iran a nuclear reactor [rated around 27MW]. [Note: The 27MW reactor proposed for installation at Isfahan by China but never realized should not be confused with a 27kWt Chinese-supplied reactor at Isfahan that went critical March 1994. For entries on the 27kWt reactor, see 1991, September 1991, March 1994, and 7 September 1995. For entries on the 27MW reactor, see 21 January 1990, 14 March 1990, June 1990, November 1991, and 1 June 1995.]
—William Drozdiak, Washington Post, 22 November 1991, pp. A35, A38.

November 1991
Israeli officials contend that, with Pakistan's help, Iran could produce a nuclear bomb by the end of the decade. US officials estimate 10 to15 years and say Iran is seeking a wide range of nuclear weapons technology.
—Mark Hibbs, Neel Patri, and Neal Sandler, Nuclear Fuel, 25 November 1991, pp. 8-9; Anton La Guardia, Daily Telegram, 2 March 1992; Neel Patri, Nucleonics Week, 28 November 1991, p. 8; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 November 1991, pp. 2-3.

November 1991
The US administration calls for a total embargo on nuclear technology to Iran and urges other nuclear suppliers, including China, to take similar action. The United States asks France to join an embargo against Iran. French officials reply that "this is not a question of export control policy. This is politics, full stop. American does not like the current Iranian regime, and they want us to buy on to their hatred of the moment. No way."
—Financial Times, 21 November 1991, p. 6. Mark D. Skootsky, "U.S. Nuclear Policy Toward Iran," 1 June 1995.

November 1991
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran and Siemens hold their first mediation talks in Geneva. No results were forthcoming. The spokesperson for the German Economics Ministry says the Paris Chamber of Commerce had no legal jurisdiction in the dispute. According to Siemens, work on the two nuclear reactors at Bushehr is between 60 and 80% complete.
—"German Government Blocks Completion Of Nuclear," Compuserve-Executive News Service, 3 August 1992.

1 November 1991
The San Francisco Chronicle reports that Iran acknowledged buying nuclear technology and equipment from China but claims it was for peaceful purposes. Iran also says China had accepted International Atomic Energy Agency restrictions on the sale of nuclear technology to other countries. China has sold nuclear technology to Algeria, Iraq, and Pakistan, which is also reported to have a nuclear weapons program. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said he had no details on Chinese-Iranian nuclear cooperation, but he said that all nuclear cooperation programs must be for peaceful purposes only, that installations must be open to international inspections, and that the recipient could not transfer any unpacked technology without China's permission.
—"Iran Insists Nuclear Supplies Aren't For Arms," San Francisco Chronicle, 1 November 1991, p. A12.

1 November 1991
The New York Times report that US analysts insist that Iran has neither the money nor the professional personnel to produce a nuclear weapon in a short time. One expert said that China might assist Iran in nuclear weapons development, but that such assistance "will certainly not be on the scale of Western help to Iraq."
—"Iran Denies Deals Tied To Atom Arms." The New York Times, 1 November 1991, p. A9.

4 November 1991
China releases details of its nuclear cooperation with Iran. According to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry, China and Iran signed deals for an electromagnetic separator for isotope production in 1989 and for a small reactor in 1991. "These facilities are used for nuclear medical diagnosis and nuclear physics research, isotope production, education, and personnel training," the statement says. "Guided by the internationally observed regulations, China had requested the International Atomic Energy Agency to enforce safeguards before these facilities were shipped." A US State Department spokesman says, "We are concerned that any dual-use equipment sold to Iran for commercial purposes could be diverted to other applications."
—"China Releases Details of Nuclear Program With Iran," Associated Press, 4 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

6 November 1991
Reza Amrollahi, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, says Iran's nuclear cooperation with China is within the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency. He says the United States is making "feverish propaganda on Iran's nuclear potential."
—"Iranian Official Welcomes Cooperation With China On Nuclear Energy," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 9 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

11 November 1991
Indian Foreign Minister Sing Solanki signs a technical cooperation deal with Iran ensuring the delivery of 10MW reactor to Iran.
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

12 November 1991
Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif denies that Pakistan might help Iran rebuild a 20-year-old nuclear research reactor. [Note: This refers to research reactors that were supplied by the United States in the 1960s under the atoms for peace program].
—"Pakistan Denies Helping Iran In Nuclear Research," Japan Economic Newswire, 12 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 November 1991
The Times of London reports that the US State Department has asked India not to sell Iran a nuclear research reactor.
—"Reactor Plea," The Times (London), 16 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

22 November 1991
In response to Indian plans to sell Iran a nuclear research reactor, US Assistant Secretary of State Reginald Bartholomew goes to New Delhi to persuade India to cancel the sale.
—"Nuclear Facilities," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

28 November 1991
India says it will sell a nuclear reactor to Iran, and says it has not been pressured by the United States or any other body to stop the deal.
—"India To Sell Nuclear Reactor To Iran; US Pressure Denied," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 30 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

30 November 1991
Brazilian Infrastructure Minister Joao Santana says Brazil is not selling equipment to Iran from its Angra III nuclear power plant. "Six months ago Iran consulted with Brazil about buying Angra III, but I told them that there was no interest in such a sale," he says. "Six months later, Brazil continues to maintain its position and I don't even know if Iran is still interested."
—"Brazil Denies Planning Nuke Sale To Iran," Agence France Presse, 30 November 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

December 1991
Time magazine reports that Iran has an enrichment plant--possibly a centrifuge facility--at Moallem Kalayeh and may have another centrifuge plant at Karaj. These reports are termed "speculative" by a nuclear industry journal.
—George J. Church, Time, 16 December 1991 pp. 42, 47-48; David Albright and Mark Hibbs, The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, March 1992, pp. 9-11.

December 1991
Diplomats from the United States and Iran have informally discussed some form of "nuclear rapprochement." However, the United States expresses concerns that Iran may purchase stockpiled plutonium from North Korea.
—Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12; Steven R. Weisman, New York Times, 20 December 1991.

December 1991
Nuclear Fuel reports that China is providing Iranian nuclear experts with know-how and design information, some of which may be related to fissile material production and weapons development.
—Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

December 1991
The final settlement on the Eurodif dispute is reached, and reports persist of a "secret clause" allowing Iran to purchase French uranium. France insisted it will not allow future Eurodif enriched uranium transfers to Iran.
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News (Middle East Defense News), August 1992, p. 51; Amir Tahiri, Al-Sharq Al-Awsat (London), 31 December 1991, p. 1; in Proliferation Issues, 31 January 1992, pp. 67-68; David Albright and Mark Hibbs, The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, March 1992, p. 28.

December 1991
France loses a court case that it had brought against Iran for breach of a contract under which France was to construct two pressurized water reactors at Karun.
—Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

December 1991
Argentina is selling hot cells to Iran. Iran may have received other nuclear-related assistance and material from Argentina. Argentina reportedly remains interested in helping Iran complete construction on the two reactors at Bushehr. [Note: The Bulletin of Atomic Scientists describes hot cells as "heavily shielded rooms with remotely operated arms used to chemically separate material irradiated in the research reactor, possibly including plutonium laden 'targets'."]
—David Albright, "An Iranian Bomb?," The Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists (Washington DC) January 1995, <http://www.bullatomsci.org>, accessed 7 July 2002; George J. Church, Time, 16 December 1991 pp. 42, 47-48; Steve Coll, Washington Post, 15 November 1991, pp. A33, A39; Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

December 1991
Iran brings a multi-billion dollar lawsuit against the German government for preventing Siemens from completing the two reactors at Bushehr.
—Mark Hibbs, Nuclear Fuel, 9 December 1991, pp. 11-12.

December 1991
Nuclear warheads from Kazakhstan are reportedly transferred via Turkmenistan to Iran. [Note: See 13 October and 27 December 1991.]
—Kenneth R. Timmerman, "Weapons of Mass Destruction: The Cases of Iran, Syria, and Libya," A Simon Wiesenthal Center Special Report from Middle East Defense News, August 1992, p. 52.

December 1991
An official who saw the calutron provided to Iran by China says that the Iranians have met with difficulties in operating the calutron at "design current," although other reports say Iran could reverse-engineer the calutron. Another report indicates the calutron has not yet been installed.
—Neel Patri, Nucleonics Week, 28 November 1991, p. 8; Mark Hibbs, Nucleonics Week, 21 November 1991, pp. 2-3; George J. Church, Time, 16 December 1991, pp. 42, 47-48; Michael Z. Wise, "Atomic Team Reports On Iran Probe," Washington Post, 15 February 1992, pp. A29, A30.

18 December 1991
Asked about rumors of nuclear cooperation between Iran and China, the Speaker of the Iranian Parliament, Mr. Karrubi, says "those rumours are fabricated by Western arrogant powers and they are not true." [Note: China acknowledged cooperating with Iran in its peaceful nuclear program in late October or early November. See 4 November 1991.]
—"Speaker Karrubi Denies Nuclear Cooperation With China," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 20 December 1991; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

27 December 1991
The magazine Al-Watan Al-Arabi reports that Iran purchased three nuclear weapons from a former Soviet republic for an estimated $175 million and hired in excess of 50 Soviet nuclear experts at salaries comparable to $5,800 a month to assemble the purchased bomb components. Kazakhstan is alleged to be the supplier in this deal because it is the only former Soviet republic known to have nuclear weapons.[Note: for earlier reports on this see 13 October and December 1991.]
—The Associated Press, "Iran Purchased Nuclear Weapons, Journal Reports," The Toronto Star, 24 January 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

29 December 1991
France's secretary general of the foreign ministry goes to Tehran to finalize the $1 billion Eurodif agreement between France and Iran. [Note: See 25 October 1991.] Further, France and Iran reach a preliminary understanding on the settlement of a disputed loan during the French Foreign Minister Francois Scheer's visit to the Iranian capital.
—"An Iranian Nuclear Chronology, 1987-1982," Middle East Defense News, 8 June 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; "Iran, France Said To Sign Secret Nuclear Accord Proliferation Issues," 31 January 1992, pp. 67-68; Amir Tahiri, Al-Sharq Al-Awsat (London), 31 December 1991, p.1.

Late 1991
Argentina considers supplying Iran with "turnkey" facilities for converting uranium concentrate to uranium dioxide and for fuel fabrication, the United States believes. Also, the United States believes the two countries are negotiating heavy water production equipment sales as well. The United States other countries supply the Argentine government with intelligence information that convinces it to halt the exports.
—Mark Hibbs "Sensitive Iran Reactor Deal May Hinge On MFN For China" Nucleonics Week, 1 October 1992, pp. 5-6.

Late 1991
A CIA and US Congressional assessment estimate that there is a "high degree of certainty that the government of Iran has acquired all or virtually all of the components required for the construction of two to three nuclear weapons."
—Alon Pinhas, "Thinking the Unthinkable About Iran," The Jerusalem Post, 23 April 1992; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

	Updated August 2005