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.

1998-1999
The US government discloses intelligence information that Russian entities are involved in transferring WMD technology to Iran. The Russian government cracks down on the sources of information, thus preventing any further leaks about Russian-Iranian WMD activities. The Russian government action virtually stops intelligence collection, especially in the years 1998 and 1999. These years are marked by intense Iranian activities in its WMD programs.
—"US Sent Data To Russia on Iran WMD," Middle East Newsline, Vol. 4, No. 199, 29 May 2002, <http://www.menl.com>.

1 January-30 June 1998
China supplies Iran with a zirconium production facility for its civil nuclear program, according to the CIA. Iran will use the facility to produce cladding for reactor fuel, the CIA reports. Under International Atomic Energy Agency safeguards guidelines, Iran is not required to place the zirconium plant or its products under international safeguards. Apparently, China is standing by its pledge from the October 1997 US-China summit by not engaging in any new nuclear cooperation with Iran. It is, however, completing two ongoing nuclear projects. Chinese President Jiang Zemin fulfilled his commitment to the United States by implementing regulations that cover the sale of dual-use nuclear equipment. The regulations took effect in June [1998?]. Entities within China, however, continue to provide missile-related items and assistance to several countries.
—"Unclassified Report to Congress on the Acquisition of Technology Relating to Weapons of Mass Destruction and Advanced Conventional Munitions," Non-proliferation Center, Director of Central Intelligence, 1 January 1998 - 30 June 1998, <http://www.odci.gov/cia/publications>.

7 January 1998
Iranian President Khatami denies allegations that Iran is seeking to develop weapons of mass destruction. "We are not a nuclear power and do not intend to be, we have not plans to build nuclear weapons and are only seeking to have peaceful nuclear energy," he says.
—"Khatami Denies Iran Seeking to be a Nuclear Power," Agence France Presse, 7 January 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, http://www.lexis-nexis.com/.

8 January 1998
Kenneth Bacon, the US Pentagon spokesman, states the United States is hopeful that statements made by Iran regarding its nuclear capabilities are true. [Note: See 7 January 1998.] But reports of nuclear component exports to Iran have provided the United States with reason to believe Iran is moving towards the development of nuclear weapons. "We don't see any signs they are stopping their efforts to develop or procure longer range ballistic missiles," he says.
—"Pentagon Skeptical of Iranian's Claims on Nuclear Issue, Terrorism," Agence France Presse, 8 January 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

8 January 1998
Iranian President Mohammad Khatami reaffirms his administration's desire to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He also declares that Iran is neither currently planning to build nuclear weapons nor will attempt to do so in the future, any nuclear technology will be applied to developing nuclear energy for peaceful purposes.
—"Khatami Gives Interview to CNN," IRIB Television (Tehran), 8 January 1998; FBIS Document FTS19980113001314, 13 January 1998.

9 January 1998
According to Zeef Schiff, an editorialist for Haaretz in Tel Aviv, Israel must modernize its defensive capabilities sufficiently to compensate for its adherence to a strategic doctrine originally written in 1956. This doctrine, anachronistic in light of contemporary issues facing Israel, is insufficient to properly protect Israel from attack. Due to territorial changes Schiff believes that Israel will need to concentrate on early warning systems based on satellite technology to negate threats posed by newly developed weapon systems in neighboring countries such as Syria, Iran, and Iraq.
—Zeef Schiff, "Facing up to Reality," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 9 January 1998, p. 7; in "Commentator Urges Updated Defense Doctrine," FBIS Document FTS19980109000323, 9 January 1998.

11 January 1998
A Jerusalem Post editorial of an interview between CNN and Iranian President Mohammad Khatami [Note: See 7 January 1998] says that his statement about Iran's adherence to peaceful nuclear-use doctrine contradicts the fact that the Iranian government has spent $1.2 billion on the Shehab missile, which is capable of carrying a one-ton warhead 1,200 kilometers. The CIA, the Post says, purports that Iran is attempting to develop chemical, biological, and nuclear weapons.
—"In the Shadow of the Mullahs," The Jerusalem Post, 11 January 1998, p. 8; in "Post Urges Israel to View Iran With 'Great Suspicion'," FBIS Document FTS19980112000498, 12 January 1998.

16 January 1998
The United Arab Emirates gives the United States a list of 15 steps the country is taking to prevent Iran from getting weapons of mass destruction.
—Reuters, 16 January 1998, 0551; in Anthony H. Cordesman, "Iran and Nuclear Weapons: A Working Draft," Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000.

19 January 1998
The Jewish Telegraph Agency reports that a two-year investigation by Britain's MI-5 intelligence agency and its European counterparts has uncovered a sophisticated supply network from Britain through Germany and Austria ending in Iran. It is used to accelerate the Iranian program for producing missiles and nuclear warheads. British customs officials say that Iran planned to use Britain as "a conduit for acquiring high-strength steel of a quality used in missile casing, and centrifuges for weapons-grade uranium." Iranian scientists have already acquired other vital components for their program, disguising some as medical equipment and auto parts. A police raid in Germany uncovered a front company for the Defense Industries Organization, an arm of the Iranian Defense Ministry. German authorities found documents detailing a huge purchasing operation to obtain weapons of mass destruction at the front company. Experts fear that "the technology acquired by the front company will significantly assist the Iranian missile and nuclear programs." British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook says that he doubts if economic sanctions would "have serious effects on Iran's attempts to acquire weapons of mass destruction."
—Douglas Davis, "Iran Using Britain As Center Of Its Weapons Network," Jewish Telegraph Agency, 19 January 1998, <http://www.jta.org/>.

22 January 1998
Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin decrees a prohibition on the transfer of material or information not listed in Russia's export control documents to any country suspected of procuring the information in order to develop nuclear, chemical, or biological weapons and their affiliated delivery systems. US Vice President Al Gore expresses his concern, noting that Russian companies are rumored to have agreements with Iran that could aid it in producing weapons of mass destruction.
—Moscow Interfax, 22 January 1998; in "Further on Russian Decree on Arms-Related Exports," FBIS Document FTS19980122000889, 22 January 1998.

22-28 January 1998
The French newspaper, Le Nouvel Observateur, reports that the Israeli secret service believes Iran, after failing to obtain nuclear technology from China, North Korea, and Russia, began communications with the Republic of South Africa on acquiring uranium enriching equipment and technical guidance. The report further states that the source of this expertise is of Israeli origin, and that the Iranian Foreign Minister, Kamal Kharazi, has met three times with officials in Pretoria and is alleged to have reached an agreement.
—Le Nouvel Observateur (France), 22-28 January 1998, p. 45; in "South Africa Allegedly Selling Nuclear Technology to Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980122000661, 22 January 1998.

26 January 1998
At a closed-door meeting, the Israeli Knesset's State Comptroller Committee discusses Iran's long-range missiles and nuclear capabilities. Israeli experts say that Iran may develop a nuclear weapons capability in less than 18 months. Prime Minister Benjamin Nethanyahu cautions Israel to be prepared for an Iranian threat if the United States fails to stop Iran from building nuclear weapons. Uzi Aram, Israeli advisor to the prime minister, is working closely with US Vice President Al Gore, to put an end to Russian supply to Iran of hardware and scientific assistance for weapons of mass destruction.
—"PM Warns Of Iranian Threat," Israel Internet News Service, 27 January 1998, <http://www.iinsnews.com>.

26 January 1998
A spokesman for the Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mahmud Mohammadi, comments that US propaganda is designed to "divert attention of public opinion from Washington's military-political support for the Zionist regime." Mohammadi further states that Iran has and will continue to adhere to the convention banning production, proliferation, and stockpiling of chemical weapons.
—IRNA (Tehran), 26 January 1998, Headline; in "Spokesman Identifies Israel as Focus of Insecurity, Threat," FBIS Document FTS19980126001094, 26 January 1998.

27 January 1998
Russian President Putin's spokesman, Sergey Yastrzhembskiy, reasserts that Russia will neither provide Iran with ballistic missile technology nor participate in Iranian missile programs. American intelligence believes that Iran could be capable of deploying missiles with nuclear or chemical warheads within two to three years. The US government warns that any technological assistance from Russia to Iran will be met with sanctions, possibly undermining the stability of US-Russia relations. Yastrzhembskiy assures the United States that any past wrong-doing was instigated by "individual irresponsible firms," and that "there is no longer any cause for concern."
—Marina Kalashnikova, "Iran is our Friend, But the United States is Dearer Still," Kommersaut-Daily (Moscow), 27 January 1998, p. 5; in "Progress on Iran Export Controls 'Not Enough' for US," FBIS Document FTS19980127000889, 27 January 1998.

February 1998
China suspends the sale by The China Nuclear Energy Industry to Iran of hundreds of tons of anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, which can be used to enrich uranium. The chemical was intended for the Isfahan Nuclear Research Center. The amount would have been enough to last a decade in an "ambitious nuclear program." The suspension of the sale comes three years after the United States first discovered the sale and nearly two years after China pledged not to sell such products to Iran.
—Anthony H. Cordesman, "Iran and Nuclear Weapons: A Working Draft," Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000.

February-March 1998
A few days after Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi's visit to Russia, the Russian Atomic Energy Minister, Viktor Mikhailov, is abruptly removed from his position. Official sources state that Mikhailov asks to leave his position so he can concentrate on scientific research. Speculation is that he is removed due to disputes over his suggestions for broadening nuclear cooperation with Iran. Two days later, Yevgeniy Adamov is appointed as the new Minister for Nuclear Energy. Adamov is the former head of the Research and Development Institute of Power Engineering, where he developed a program in nuclear safety. Last month he accompanied Mikhailov to Tehran to meet with Iranian officials. US officials are concerned over the appointment of Adamlov, but he has assured those same officials that he has no intention of helping Iran develop nuclear weapons. However, later in the week he announces that Russia plans to sell several more nuclear reactors to Iran. That same day, Ukraine announces that it will cancel plans to supply turbines for the Bushehr reactor. In response, Russian officials say that Russia could build the turbines itself at a factory near St. Petersburg. US officials say that the plant would have to be retooled first, adding further delays to the Iranian nuclear project. Later in the month, Mikhailov emerges as First Deputy Minister of Atomic Energy and boasts that 1,000 Russians will be in Iran by the end of the year building the first of several nuclear reactors. He also says that he has recommended Yevgeniy Adamov as his successor because of his strong support of the type of reactor being built in Iran.
—Michael R. Gordon, "Atom Chief of Russia is Removed From Post," New York Times, 3 March 1998; Michael R. Gordon, "Russia Names Atomic Chief, and the US is a Little Wary," New York Times, 5 March 1998; Michael R. Gordon, "Russia Plans to Sell Reactors to Iran Despite US Protests," New York Times, 7 March 1998; Tyler Marshall, "Kiev Drops Nuclear Deal With Iran," New York Times, 7 March 1998; Michael R. Gordon, "Ex-Moscow Atom Chief Still in the Fray," New York Times, 17 March 1998.

2 February 1998
Because of delays and quality control problems with Iranian subcontractors at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, Iran converts many of the subcontracts with Iranian subcontractors to Russian contractors on a "turnkey" basis. This will also improve Russian control over and integration of the project. Iranian subcontractors tasked to build the reactor hall had completed only five months worth of work in 25 months.
—Anthony H. Cordesman, "Iran and Nuclear Weapons: A Working Draft," Center for Strategic and International Studies, 7 February 2000.

2 February 1998
A report by Omid Suresrafil in the Tehran Times decries US proliferation hypocrisy as symbolic of its attempt to divert attention from its own nuclear stockpiles. Suresrafil elaborates that the United States has turned a blind-eye towards its main ally in the Middle East, Israel, regarding its nuclear stockpile. The reports further condemns the efforts of William Perry, US Defense Secretary, who was told by an unnamed Israeli military official on a trip to the Middle East in January that Iran could be capable of developing a nuclear weapon in five years. This anonymous source hinted at the possibility that Israel may repeat its action against Iraq in 1981 and attack suspected Iranian nuclear facilities.
—Omid Suresrafil, "Open Hypocrisy, American Style," Tehran Times (Iran), 9 February 1998, p. 14; in "Iran Daily on US Proliferation 'Hypocrisy'," FBIS Document FTS19980218000856, 18 February 1998.

3 February 1998
The Iranian newspaper Farda reports that Iran is unhappy with Russian work at the Bushehr nuclear power plant, and that Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, did not accompany Viktor Mikhailov, head of the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry, on a recent trip to Bushehr to show disapproval. Mikhailov says there is no delay in construction, but that any Russian worker who causes delay will be fired.
—"Iran Not Satisfied With Russia Over Nuclear Power Plant—Report," Deutsche Presse-Agentur, 3 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

9 February 1998
James Foley, a spokesman for the US State Department, says the United States wants Ukraine to refrain from making any deal with Iran that will provide it with nuclear weapons technology. Such a deal, the State Department asserts, will result in significant cuts of US aid to Ukraine. Washington has thus far refused to allow a deal between Westinghouse Electric Corporation of the United States and Ukraine that provides Ukraine with two nuclear plants, and will not allow any deal to take place until an agreement is reached on the Iranian reactor. He says the United States may even pay Ukraine for financial losses it sustains from scrapping the Iranian deal. Qol Yisrael International Service reports that the US government suspended several agreements with Ukraine in an effort to coerce it to not sell Iran nuclear turbines.
—"US Puts Pressure on Ukraine to Stop Nuclear Reactor Sale to Iran," Agence France Presse, 9 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; "US-Ukraine Discord Over Iran," Disarmament Diplomacy, February 1998, p. 53; "US Pressures Ukraine Over Turbine Sale To Iran," RFE/RL Newsline, 10 February 1998; Qol Yisrael International Service (Jerusalem), 9 February 1998; in "Program Summary-Jerusalem," Qol Yisrael Persian 091500," FBIS Document FTS19980209001278, 9 February 1998.

10 February 1998
The Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reports that the Iranian government decided to conclude a "contract for completing the first unit" of its nuclear power plant at Bushehr. Observers said that the contract could be in reference to a statement in October 1997 by the head of the Iranian Atomic Energy Commission, Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, about Iran's intention to construct a second 1,000MW reactor at Bushehr with Russian assistance. Two Russian reactors have been planned in Iran for several years, but high costs meant that work on only one has begun so far. Aqazadeh also announces that Iran "wants to sign two separate contracts;" one with Russia for two 440MW units, and the other with China for two 300MW units.
—"Iran Ready For Contract To Complete First Unit Of Nuclear Plant," Agence France Presse, 10 February 1998.

13 February 1998
Viktor Mikhailov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, says that Iran does not possess "the scientific and technological potential necessary and sufficient," to manufacture nuclear weapons. Mikhailov refutes Benjamin Netanyahu's promulgations that Iran is attempting to build a nuclear weapon. Russia's Energy Minister further asserts that any transfer of information to Iran is solely for peaceful purposes, refuting reports that Russia is providing Iran with centrifuges used to manufacture weapons-grade material.
—Interfax (Moscow), 13 February 1998; in "Russian Minister Says Iran Cannot Produce Nuclear Weapons," FBIS Document FTS19980213000760, 13 February 1998.

14 February 1998
US and Ukrainian officials discuss the sale of two turbines from Ukrainian company Turboatom to a Russian company for use at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. The United States opposes the sale. Volodymyr Horbulin, secretary of Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, says the United States and Ukrainian governments will decide in the next two or three weeks whether the sale will go through. Russian news sources report that the United States and Russia have reached a tentative agreement regarding the export of Ukranian equipment for the Iranian nuclear reactor power plant in Bushehr. The plant is to consist of one VVER-1000 light water nuclear reactor that can generate 1,000MW.
—Security Official Discusses Iranian Nuclear Project With US Envoy," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 16 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>; UNIAN (Kiev), 14 February 1998; in "Ukrainian, US Officials Discuss Nuclear Project in Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980214000487, 14 February 1998; Moscow Interfax, 14 February 1998; in "Foreign Minister, US Envoy Discuss Iran's Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980214000404, 14 February 1998.

16 February 1998
Stephen Sestanovich, US Ambassador-at-Large, says an agreement between the United States and the Ukraine regarding construction aid to Iran's Bushehr nuclear power plant will be reached within two to three weeks. Turboatom, the Ukraine company in question, reportedly has a deal to supply Iran with two turbines for the Bushehr nuclear power plant in southern Iran. Turboatom says the parts are for "the electrical cycle of the Russian-Iranian contract and has nothing to do with the nuclear cycle."
—"Security Official Discusses Iranian Nuclear Project with US Envoy," BBC, 16 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

18 February 1998
According to Haaretz Iran will hold negotiations with the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry (Minatom) to procure a 40MW nuclear reactor. Western sources also assert that Iran seeks a supply of heavy water to aid in the production of plutonium for weapons manufacture. Such an agreement would violate an agreement between Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin and US Vice President Al Gore. Haaretz also adds that Professor Gerald Steinberg, an arms control expert at Bar-Ilan University, believes if Iran is interested in nuclear research, it already has a 5MW research reactor that does not produce plutonium to conduct analyses. Viktor Mikhailov, the Russian Minister of Atomic Energy, reasserts that Iran is still not in a position to build a nuclear weapon. Mikhailov further asserts transparency is possible since "Russia will build the nuclear power plant in Bushehr not partially, as supposed, but on a turnkey basis, since Iran is not capable with its part of the work."
—David Makovsky, Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 18 February 1998, p. 1; in "Iranian Negotiating Purchase of Nuclear Reactor From Russia," FBIS Document FTS19980218000122, 18 February 1998; Segodnya Newscast NTV (Moscow), 18 February 1998; in "Russian Atomic Energy Minister Denies Nuclear Help to Iraq," FBIS Document FTS19980219000798, 19 February 1998; Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-ITASS World Service (Moscow), 18 February 1998; in "Russia to 'Take Charge' of Building Iranian Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980219000585, 19 February 1998.

22 February 1998
The Washington Post reports that while Iran has finished the equivalent of five months of work on the Bushehr reactor in the past 25 months, Russia plans to finish the reactor in 30 months. Both Iran and Russia deny that the project will provide Iran with nuclear weapons technology.
—David Hoffman, "Russia Expanding Role In Iranian Power Plant US, Israel Object That Technology Might Aid Development Of Nuclear Weapons Program," Washington Post, 22 February 1998.

22 February 1998
Ukrainian Weekly reports that the United States and Russia are placing conflicting pressures on Ukraine over its potential sale of turbines to Russia. Russia needs the turbines to construct a nuclear power plant in Iran. Ukraine would prefer to allow turbine manufacturer Turboatom to sell at least one turbine to Russia. Ukraine is not expected to make a final decision until late March 1998. If Ukraine sells the turbines to Russia, Russia has promised to provide its own technology and credits to complete two power plants in Ukraine. If Ukraine decides not to sell the turbines, however, they will be forced to forfeit all future dealings with Russian firms, resulting in a loss of hundreds of millions of dollars. The United States opposes the transfer of any nuclear technology to Iran, despite the fact that Iran has promised to accept international safeguards for the new facility. The United States believes Iran will ultimately use the technology to make nuclear weapons.
—Pavel Polityuk, "Ukraine Pressured To Make Decision On Sale Of Turbines Needed In Iran," Ukrainian Weekly, 22 February 1998, p. 2; Yaro Bihun, "Ukraine Caught Between US, Russia In Sale Of Nuclear Technology To Iran," Ukrainian Weekly, 22 February 1998, p. 1.

24 February 1998
David Kyd, the spokesperson of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), reports the Russian ministry for nuclear power (Minatom) is conducting negotiations with Iran over the delivery of a 40MW nuclear reactor to Iran. Kyd refutes allegations made by Israeli intelligence services that Iran is trying to procure heavy water from Russia.
—"Moscow to Supply Iran with Nuclear Reactor," Global News Wire, 24 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

24 February 1998
Global News Wire reports that the German intelligence service, Bundes Nachrichten Dienst (BND), says Iran is attempting to build nuclear weapons at a site outside of Isfahan, Iran.
—"Moscow to Supply Iran with Nuclear Reactor," Global News Wire, 24 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

24-26 February 1998
The Iranian Foreign Minister Kamal Kharazi visits Russia to meet with Russia Foreign Minister Yevgeniy Primakov, Defense Council Secretary Ivan Rybkin, and Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov. Discussion topics include, among other things, Iran's ties with Russia, the crisis in Iraq, and the Russian construction of a nuclear reactor at the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran. Kharazi also talks to Russian Atomic Energy Minister Viktor Mikhailov, who indicates that Russia will take over the construction of the Bushehr plant from local companies. This seems to validate claims over the growing problems concerning Bushehr's refurbishment. [Note: See also 2 and 22 February 1998, 16 November 1998, and March 1999.]
—Agence France-Presse, "Iranian Foreign Aide on a Visit to Moscow," The New York Times, 25 February 1998; K. Ilieva et al., "Validation of Neutron Fluence Calculation Methodology for VVER-440 Vessel, Nuclear Science and Engineering, 1997, Vol.125, pp. 243-247.

25 February 1998
Iran's Economics Council budgets 11.5 billion Rials for a contract to improve the safety system at the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—"More Funds Earmarked For Bushehr Nuclear Power Station," BBC Summary of World Broadcasts, 25 February 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

28 February 1998
In an interview with Russian Daily, Kamal Kharazi, the Iranian foreign minister, states Russia is fully aware that Iran does not seek to procure weapons of mass destruction, and that Iran-Russia cooperation is relegated to non-military use of nuclear energy.
—IRNA (Tehran), 28 February 1998; in "Iranian Foreign Minister Interviewed by Russian Daily," FBIS Document FTS19980301000282, 1 March 1998.

March 1998
Russia proposes to assist Iran in deploying a constellation of communication and earth-monitoring satellites. The project would be run by the Spurt Scientific-Industrial Center, with the satellites being developed by the Reutov Machinery-Building Scientific-Industrial Association. If deployed such a system would allow Iran to keep track of its neighbors and may even lead to regional stability. Or the system could be used for targeting of unfriendly neighbors. Whether such a system is affordable for Iran is unknown.
—Aviation Week and Space Technology, 16 March 1998, p. 21, <http://www.aintionnow.com/>.

March 1998
Labor MK Rafi Elul meets with an unknown US source, reportedly with long-time connections to the Israeli government, who states that in 1995 she gave to both the CIA and Israel Iranian government documents on Iran's successful efforts to obtain nuclear weapons from the former Soviet Union. [Note: For more on this topic, see 1995, 9, 10 (2 entries), 11, 15, and 16 April 1998. 1991, 13 October, December, and 27 December 1991 entries may also be related.]
—Steve Rodan, "MK Elul Says Israel, US Have Known of Iranian Nukes for Years," Jerusalem Post, <http://www.jpost.co.il>, 12 April 1998.

3 March 1998
Mikhail Virchenko, chief engineer at Turboatom in Ukraine, says his company "is doing design work on a one million-kilowatt [1,000MW] turbine for the Bushehr nuclear power station in Iran." The Ukrainian company Turboatom was contracted by the Russian firm Zarubezhatomenergostroy (company for nuclear power engineering abroad) to design the turbine Russia needs for the Bushehr nuclear station in Iran. Turboatom hopes to sign a contract with Russia for manufacturing the turbine once the design phase is completed. [Note: See 14 February 1998.]
—"Ukraine Working On Turbine For Iranian Nuclear Plant," Interfax (Moscow), 3 March 1998, FBIS-SOV-98-062, 3 March 1998.

5 March 1998
The Russian-Iranian intergovernmental commission on economic cooperation comes to a tentative agreement during its second session regarding the construction of a third and fourth nuclear power station. Vladimir Bulgak, the Russian deputy prime minister, reasserts that Iran's nuclear transparency is intact, noting its membership in the International Atomic Energy Agency and its status as a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
—Konstantin Kazeyev, ITAR-TASS World Service (Moscow), 5 March 1998; in "Russia Agrees to Build Two More Nuclear Reactors for Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980306000050, 6 March 1998.

6 March 1998
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Gennadiy Udovenko and US Secretary of State Madeline Albright sign a nuclear cooperation agreement ending all Ukrainian nuclear cooperation with Iran. In return, the United States will support Ukraine's bid to become a member of the Missile Technology Control Regime. Albright describes Ukraine's move to end nuclear commerce with Tehran as an act of, "great statesmanship." US officials expect Ukraine's decision to delay the completion of the 1,000MW nuclear reactor at Bushehr, which Russia is building. Ukraine's AOA Turboatom of Kharkiv was to build a $45 million turbine for the $850 million light water reactor. Moscow has said that it will produce the turbine for itself at a St. Petersburg plant, contradicting one US official who said no one else in the world could makes the turbines, "such that they can be bought off the shelf for Bushehr." At the signing ceremony, Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma echoes Moscow's appraisal, saying that Russia could produce the turbine for itself. The Russian Atomic Energy Ministry believes Ukraine's withdrawal from the project does not upset the time table for the completion of the Bushehr station, "Ukraine is just one subcontractor which can be replaced quite easily with another," notes Vitaliy Nasonov, a spokesman for the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry. Possibly responding to the US attempt to sabotage the Bushehr project, Georgy Kaurov, spokesman for the Russian Ministry of Atomic Energy, announces that Moscow has reached an agreement in principle with Tehran to build two additional reactors at Bushehr.
—Howard Diamond, "US, Ukraine Sign Nuclear Accord, Agree On MTCR Accession," Arms Control Today, March 1998, p. 23; "Ukraine, US Sign Agreement On Satellite, Space Technologies," FBIS Document SOV-98-065, 6 March 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 6 March 1998; in "Ukraine Not To Supply Equipment to Iran Nuclear Power Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980306000528, 6 March 1998; Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS World Service (Moscow), 6 March 1998; in "No Problem With Ukraine Withdrawal From Iran Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980306000724, 6 March 1998.

6 March 1998
Georgy Kaurov, spokesman for Russia's atomic energy minister, announces Russia will build two more nuclear reactors in Iran in addition to Russia's $850 million deal to build a 1,000MW nuclear power plant at Bushehr. Kaurov says Russia "agreed in principle" with Iran on the construction of two more reactors at Bushehr. Construction is not expected to begin for five years. This new deal was not a signed contract, but was rather a verbal agreement. Vitaliy Nasonov, a spokesman for the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry (Minatom) says, "Russia will not sign any new documents with Iran until it has completed the contract to build the nuclear power station at Bushehr." He says Russia is not refusing to expand cooperation with Iran entirely, just "not until the 21st century." Russia and Iran initially signed a contract on 8 January 1995 for the first reactor at Bushehr. Russia took over construction of the reactor at Bushehr in February 1998 due to delays by Iran. Kaurov says that Russia plans to speed construction of the current project and expects to finish the reactor in two-and-one-half years. Next, construction would start on two new 640MW power reactors, "which are still being developed." [Note: This seems to be the first mention of 640MW reactors at Bushehr. Previously, two 440MW reactors had been discussed for Bushehr.] An unnamed American official doubts Iran will have enough money to pay for the planned reactors. "Whether they can get the first one done is iffy, and the chance of their completing the second, third, or fourth is highly unlikely," the official says.
—"Russia To Build Reactors For Iran," Washington Times, 7 March 1998, p. A69; Veronika Romanenkova, "No More Nuclear Plants In Iran Until Bushehr Completed," ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 6 March 1998, in FBIS-TAC-98-065, 6 March 1998; "Iran's Nuclear Reactor," Israel Internet News Service, 12 March 1998, <http://www.iinsnews.com/>; "Russia, Iran Agree On Nuclear Reactor," Russia Today, 6 March 1998, <http://www.russiatoday.com/>; "Russia Plans To Sell Reactors To Iran Despite US Protest," Michael R. Gordon, New York Times, 7 March 1998, p. A3.

7 March 1998
Iran lambastes Ukraine for its decision to back out of a deal with Iran to provide it with turbines for its nuclear power plant at Bushehr. Iran state radio calls the move unwise, stating, "Ukraine is only losing its political and commercial credibility. It lacks the qualifications to boost relations with Iran." Mahmud Mohammadi, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, condemns Ukraine's inference that it has an agreement with Iran on the construction of a nuclear plant in Bushehr, Iran. Mohammadi further states that its interest in nuclear technology is for peaceful purposes that are within the right of any sovereign state wishing to further its national development. Ukraine's decision comes after it reached an agreement with the United States on a new 30-year nuclear cooperation accord that will provide Ukraine will considerable funding. This accord confirms the two states' commitment to controlling the export of nuclear technology to states that do not possess nuclear weapons and allows Kiev to purchase American fuel for its reactors. [Note: See 6 March 1998.]
—"Russia Agrees, Ukraine Cancels Nuclear Deal with Iran," BBC World Service: Europe, 6 March 1998; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu>; "Iran Slams Ukraine as 'Unreliable' after Halting Nuclear Ties," Agence France-Presse, 7 March 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; IRNA (Tehran), 7 March 1998; in "Iran Offers Kosovo Mediation, Deplores Nuclear 'Ballyhoo'," FBIS Document FTS19980307000402, 7 March 1998.

9 March 1998
Viktor Chernomyrdin, the Russian prime minister, announces Russia will not violate international agreements by providing Iran or any other nation that is in violation of the current international regime with missile or nuclear technologies.
—Yelena Kornysheva, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 9 March 1998; in "Chernomyrdin Denies Transfer of Nuclear Technology to Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980309000267, 9 March 1998.

11 March 1998
Asadollah Saburi, deputy head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), and Yevgeniy Adamov, the Russian atomic energy minister, discuss options regarding cooperation in constructing the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russia promises to build turbines needed for the nuclear power plant's generators if Ukraine fails to provide them. Adamov invites AEOI head Gholam Reza Aqazadeh to Russia for a meeting in May to discuss future cooperation concerning Russia's building of two more energy units for the Bushehr nuclear power plant. The United States continues to denounce any agreements made between Russia and Iran concerning the transfer of nuclear technology. Moscow counters US apprehension by reminding the United States that the VVER-1000 reactor, which would be used in the construction of the Bushehr plant, cannot be used for the production of nuclear materials. Russia intends to continue its relationship with Iran concerning nuclear power despite US opposition.
—Interfax (Moscow), 11 March 1998; in "Adamov: Ukraine's Decision Has No Impact on Bushehr Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980311001280, 11 March 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 11 March 1998; in "Atomic Energy Minister Reaffirms Iran Contract," FBIS Document FTS19980311000439, 11 March 1998; Andrey Shitov, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 11 March 1998; in "Nuclear Power Minister: Cooperation With Iran to Continue," FBIS Document FTS19980311000370, 11 March 1998.

11 March 1998
The United States, resolute in its opposition to Russian participation in Iranian nuclear affairs, offers "to lift all 'space' quotas for Russia in exchange for the cessation of construction work on the nuclear power station in Iran."
—Valeriya Sycheva, "A Bird in the Hand is Worth Two in Outer Space," Segodnya (Moscow), 11 March 1998; in "GCC: Russia Offered Space Quotas for Bushehr," FBIS Document FTS1998031100032, 11 March 1998.

12 March 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister confirms that Russian plans to finish construction of the Bushehr electric power station within 55 months of signing of the contract in January 1995. Asadollah Saburi, vice president of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, and Adamov agree that US opposition to the construction will not have a negative effect on completion of the Bushehr electric power station.
—Aleksandr Koretskiy, "Russia and Iran to Join Forces Against America. Ukraine Rejects What It Was Not Offered," Segodnya (Moscow), 12 March 1998; in "Cooperation With Iran Developing 'To Spite Washington'," FBIS Document FTS19980312000289, March 12 1998; Aleksey Zayko, "Ministry of Atomic Energy Will Continue Nuclear Cooperation With Iran; Americans Have Not Managed To Persuade Russia," Russiky Telegraf (Moscow), 12 March 1998; in "Russia May Build Turbine for Bushehr Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980312000544, March 12 1998.

13 March 1998
The Washington Times reports that in the last few weeks, information has surfaced that China has again tried to sell nuclear equipment with weapons applications to Iran even after promising to halt nuclear exports to Iran.
—Bill Gertz, "China in New Nuclear Sales Effort; White House Plays Down Finding," Washington Times, 13 March 1998.

13 March 1998
Belarusian authorities accuse the media of "falsely interpreting the results of [Belarus President] Alyaksandr Lukashenka's visit to the Middle East." Ivan Antanovich, the Belarusian Foreign Minister, refutes allegations that Belarus is negotiating with Iran over cooperation in the area of nuclear technology.
—Segodnya Newscast, NTV (Moscow), 13 March 1998; in "Belarus Blames Russian Media for Iran Nuclear Reports," FBIS Document FTS19980313001324, March 13 1998.

13 March 1998
ITAR-TASS reports that Iran made three attempts in 1997 to procure Russian nuclear components and technologies. According to the report, the Sanam, a state-run company in Iran, attempted to purchase dual-use technologies from the Central Aerohydrodynamic Institute in Zhukovskiy and the Mytishchi machine-building plant in order to build its own missiles. Vladimir Orlov, the director of the Russian center for political studies, claims a 32-year-old Iranian citizen, Reza Teymiri, was arrested last November [1997]. Orlov asserts that such incidents highlight the importance of curtailing the problem before it becomes wider spread, asserting "This is not Russia's problem alone. Iranians are very active in the CIS. US companies also tried to pass on to Iran components of rocket technology."
—Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS World Service (Moscow), 13 April 1998; in "Iranian Attempts To Obtain Russian Nuclear Parts Thwarted," FBIS Document FTS19980413000419, 13 April 1998.

13 March 1998
Russia rejects a US proposal to increase quotas regarding satellite launches in return for Russian promise to end construction of Bushehr power plant. [Note: See 11 March 1998.]
—"End of Chernomyrdin's Visit to the US," Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 13 March 1998; in "Commentary Praises Russian Premier's Stance on US," FBIS Document FTS19980313001091, March 13 1998.

14 March 1998
The Times of London reports that US intelligence discovered Iran and China have discussed a deal that would provide Iran with hundreds of tons of nuclear material. The report comes only several weeks after the Clinton administration and China reached an agreement halting any transfer of nuclear technology. Further talks between the US Department of State and China reveal China has reaffirmed its agreement to not supply Iran with anhydrous hydrogen fluoride, used in enriching uranium. [Note: See 13 March 1998 for a Washington Times report that China is continuing nuclear cooperation with Iran.]
—Tom Rhodes, "US Halts Chinese Nuclear Aid to Iran," The Times, 14 March 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 March 1998
Iran says China will continue its assistance to Iran despite reports by the United States that China has halted all nuclear technology trade with Iran. Mahumd Mohammadi, Iran's foreign ministry spokesman, claims "Iran's nuclear program and cooperation with other countries is entirely peaceful, in accordance with international regulations and under the supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)." US lawmakers were reportedly told in closed briefings that China will most likely continue to provide Iran with nuclear assistance, which runs contrary to a previous agreement reached between the United States and China. [Note: See also 13 and 14 March 1998.]
—"Iran Denies Halt in Nuclear Cooperation with China," Agence France Presse, 15 March 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

15 March 1998
Iran denounces US propaganda of nuclear cooperation between Iran and China. Mr. Mohammadi, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, attributes this action to an US attempt to divert attention from what he believes is an increasing stockpile of nuclear weapons in Israel. Mohammadi further stresses that any collaboration concerning the exchange of nuclear information with other countries is explicitly done with peaceful objectives. Muhammad-Reza Ismailzadeh declares US attempts to damage the nuclear relationship between Iran and Russia is done so despite a declaration by the head of the International Atomic Energy Agency that Iran's nuclear installations and reactors are for peaceful use only. Ismailzadeh warns that US endeavors in this area, such as its success in forcing China to end peaceful nuclear cooperation with Iran, will further US resolve in this arena.
—Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 15 March 1998; in "Iran Condemns US Reports on Sino-Iranian Nuclear Ties," FIBS Document FTS19980315000482, 15 March 1998; Novosti Russian Public Television (Moscow), 15 March 1998; in "Abandoning Iranian Nuclear Project Loses Turboatom Money," FIBS Document FTS19980315000199, 15 March 1998; Mohammad-Reza Esma'il-Zadeh, "Nuclear Cooperation Between Iran and Russia?," Resalat (Tehran), 15 March 1998, p. 16; in "Daily Criticizes US Moves Against Iran-Russian Cooperation," FBIS Document FTS19980324001498, 24 March 1998.

16 March 1998
International Atomic Energy Agency spokesman David Kyd announces that the "IAEA has not detected any suspicious nuclear activities being carried out" in Iran which violate the NPT or any other laws governing non-proliferation. The IAEA team inspected the research center at Isfahan and the experimental reactor at the University of Tehran four times in the last year. The two reactors under construction at Bushehr were not inspected because no form of nuclear fuel has been transferred there yet. Kyd also stresses that the "IAEA [has] never detected any sort of suspicious activity in Iran."
—"IAEA: No Suspicious Nuclear Activities Detected In Iran," IRNA (Tehran), 16 March 1998; in FBIS-NES-98-075, 16 March 1998.

17 March 1998
The New York Times reports that under the agreement reached earlier this month by Russian Prime Minister Viktor Chernomyrdin and US Vice President Al Gore, a new commission of experts will be formed to discuss and monitor the export of sensitive nuclear and missile related technology. Chernomyrdin also reaffirms an earlier Russian pledge to have no further nuclear cooperation with Iran while work is continuing on the current nuclear reactor. How this pledge will affect future cooperation has not been announced.
—Steven Erlinger, "Russia Vows to Push Pact Cutting Arms," New York Times, 17 March 1998.

17 March 1998
China denies that Chinese companies have sold the chemical anhydrous hydrogen fluoride (AHF) to the Isfahan Nuclear Research Center in Iran. Zhu Bangzao, a spokesman for China's foreign ministry, says "China is a signatory of the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). It does not advocate, encourage or engage in nuclear weapons proliferation, nor does it help other countries develop nuclear weapons."
—"China Denies Nuclear Sales to Iran," Agence France Presse, 17 March 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com/>.

17 March 1998
A ministry official of the Russian Atomic Energy Ministry confirms that Atomic Energy Organization of Iran head Gholam Reza Aqazadeh will visit Moscow next May to discuss the $800 million contract to construct the Bushehr energy station. The Bushehr station, which he states will be completed before 2000, is planned to eventually consist of two power units with VVER-1000 reactors and two with VVER-440 water-moderated reactors. Dmitriy Frolov, in an article for Novyye Izvestiya, reports the importance of the sales to the failing Ministry of Atomic Energy, which could receive $1.5 billion from Iran for the purchase of uranium.
—Interfax (Moscow), 17 March 1998; in "Russia To Earn $5 Billion Building Nuclear Plants Abroad," FBIS Document FTS19980317001019, 17 March 1998; Dmitriy Frolov, "Iranian Issue Has Played Into Hands of Ministry of Atomic Energy," Novyye Izvestiya (Moscow), 17 March 1998, p. 5; in "Uranium Seen as Focus of Gore-Chernomyrdin," FBIS Document FTS19980317000745, 17 March 1998.

19 March 1998
Anatoliy Bugayets, director general of the Ukrainian Turboatom company, says the failure of Ukraine to participate in construction of the nuclear power station in Bushehr will cost more than the previously quoted $45 million possibly costing Ukraine $450-$500 million. Ukraine may lose the Iranian market entirely, a fact Bugayets reports could have significant repercussions. Turboatom was to build a turbine or turbines for the plant. [Note: See 6 March 1998.]
—Interfax (Moscow), 19 March 1998; in "Withdrawal From Iranian Nuclear Plant May Cost $500 Million," FBIS Document FTS19980320001708, 20 March 1998.

19 March 1998
An Israeli minister and US Vice President Al Gore discuss Russia's transfer of missile technology to Islamic regimes. A Russian military expert warns Russia's government that exchange of nuclear and missile technology with Iran could undermine Russia's future security.
—Qol Yisrael International Service (Jerusalem), 19 March 1998; in "Program Summary— Jerusalem Qol Yisrael, Persian 191500, FBIS Document FTS19980322000208, 22 March 1998.

24 March 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, the Russian Atomic Energy Minister, reconfirms Russia's intention to continue work on the nuclear power plant in Bushehr, Iran. In response to accusations from the US government, Adamov assures that Russia "does not accept double standards in the sphere of cooperation with non-nuclear countries. We proceed from the fact that Iran is a signatory to the Non-Proliferation Treaty and is ready to make its facilities available for oversight by the International Atomic Energy Agency."
—Interfax (Moscow), 24 March 1998; in "Russia Determined to Build Nuclear Power Station in Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980324001245, 24 March 1998.

26 March 1998
In a news conference after a meeting with workers from the Turboatom plant in Kharkov, Yevgeniy Marchuk, the former Ukrainian prime minster, announces the decision of the Ukrainian government to cancel the turbine deal for the Bushehr nuclear power station is not final. Marchuk believes the decision was "short-sighted" and says he will provide political backing to counter allegations of any wrong-doing. Leonid Kuchma, the Ukrainian president, counters these remarks at a press conference in Sofia, stating that Ukraine will adhere to the agreement on nonproliferation of nuclear weapons. Kuchma asserts that discerning Iranian government intentions regarding nuclear technology is difficult. He believes caution will best serve the Ukrainian administration. Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, asks for a definitive answer from the Ukrainian government regarding its involvement with the Bushehr plant in southern Iran. Ukraine vows to provide an answer within a week. [Note: See 6 March 1998 entry for Ukraine's original announcement that it will not participate in Bushehr.]
—Interfax (Moscow), 26 March 1998; in "Ukrainian Premier: Iranian Turbine Deal Can Still Proceed," FBIS Document FTS19980326001329, 26 March 1998; Ukrayinske (Kiev), 26 March 1998; in "Kuchma: Ukraine Adheres To Non-proliferation Treaty," FBIS Document FTS19980326000658, 26 March 1998; Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 26 March 1998; in "Russian Wants Ukraine's Answer on Bushehr Project Plans," FBIS Document FTS19980326000366, 26 March 1998.

6 April 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, the Russian Minister for Atomic Energy, confirms that Gholam Aqazade, the President of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, is invited to Moscow in May to discuss organizational matters pertaining to the construction of the Bushehr nuclear energy plant. Adamov hopes to establish a new contract with Iran regarding the construction of a research nuclear reactor. This reactor, Adamov affirms, can be delivered with uranium enrichment less than 20%, a level the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) would find acceptable. Adamov further promises to continue "cooperation in nuclear power engineering with Iran."
—Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 6 April 1998; in "Iranian Atomic Energy Chief Invited to Visit Moscow," FBIS Document FTS19980406000694, 6 April 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 6 April 1998; "Russia Ready to Build Research Nuclear Reactor in Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980406001068, 6 April 1998; Russian Public Television (Moscow), 6 April 1998; in "Russia To Build Nuclear Plant in Iran Despite US Pressure," FBIS Document FTS19980407000092, 7 April 1998.

6 April 1998
Russian Atomic Energy Minister Yevgeniy Adamov says that Russia proposed building a research reactor in Iran. The contract was first drafted in 1996 and is now awaiting approval by both governments. Adamov says that the reactor would use enriched uranium of 20% or less and would meet IAEA requirements. Adamov also says that Russia was planning on "stepping up the pace of construction" at the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russian officials are considering finishing the project on a "turnkey" contract basis. This will allow Russia to raise the price of the reactor from $780 million to just over $1 billion.
—"Russia Plans New Reactor In Iran, Official Says," Washington Post, 7 April 1998, p. 18; "Russia Steps Up Nuclear Cooperation With Iran," Monitor, 7 April 1998; Dmitriy Frolov, "Iranian Question In Minatom's Hands," Novyye izvestiya, 17 March 1998, p. 5.

7 April 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, describes the relationship between Tehran and Moscow as "strategic and excellent," reminding the international community that any nuclear relationship between Russia and Iran, such as the Bushehr nuclear power plant project, "poses no danger."
—IRIB Television (Tehran), 7 April 1998; in "Russian Minister Stresses Commitment to Nuclear Deal," FBIS Document FTS19980407001218, 7 April 1998.

7 April 1998
Azerbaijani customs seize 22 tons of steel alloy on the Azerbaijani-Iranian border. [Note: See also 26 April 1998.]
—Azeri Paper Sees 'Iranian Hand' In Nuclear Smuggling, Zerkalo (Baku), 4 July 1998, pp. 5, 26, FBIS-SOV-98-188, 7 July 1998; ANS TV (Baku), 19 June 1998; in BBC Summary Of World Broadcasts, 23 June 1998; in "Authorities Arrest Four After Theft Of Radioactive Material," Lexis-Nexis, 23 June 1998, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 April 1998
The Jerusalem Post reports that Iran received nuclear warheads from a former Soviet republic in the early 1990s, maintained by Russian experts. This information is based on Iranian government documents relayed to Israel and acquired by The Post. These documents contain correspondence between leaders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) and Iran's government officials that discusses Iran's successful acquisition of nuclear warheads from former Soviet republics. US congressional experts have deemed the documents authentic; Israel is still studying them. The Post notes that these documents appear to support reports from 1992 that Iran received up to four nuclear warheads and enriched uranium from Kazakhstan, with assistance from the Russian underworld. [Note: For more on this topic, see 1995, 10 (2 entries), 11, 15, and 16 April 1998. 1991, 13 October, December, and 27 December 1991 entries may also be related.]
—Steve Rodan, "Documents obtained by 'Jerusalem Post' show: Iran has four nuclear bombs," Jerusalem Post (Jerusalem), 9 April 1998, pp1, 2; in "Iran Said To Obtain Four Nuclear Bombs From CIS Republics," FBIS Document FTS19980417000482, 17 April 1998.

10 April 1998
The Jerusalem Post reports that top-secret Iranian government documents indicate that Iran paid $25 million for two tactical nuclear weapons smuggled out of Kazakhstan in the early 1990s. An unknown exiled Iranian scientist delivered the documents to Labor MK Rafi Elul. The weapons, delivered to the Lavizan industries in Iran, allegedly were impossible to use due to a safety mechanism on their covers. A source identified as Engineer Turkan in the documents said that the only way to make the weapons operational would be "to bring the experts from the country in which they were produced [to Iran] and to remove the covers." Argentine and Russian technicians reportedly aided the operation; the documents indicate that Turkan deemed the Argentine workers ineffectual and hoped that the Russian experts would "not cause these problems." The US government reportedly has been holding these documents for several years, but believes that the documents are false. [Note: See 9 April 1998 entry that states that the United States confirms the authenticity of the documents.] When asked about claims that Iran acquired nuclear weapons from Kazakhstan, State Department spokesperson James Rubin stated, "There was no evidence to substantiate such claims." Rubin added, "While we remain concerned about Iranian intentions to acquire nuclear weapons capability, we have no information suggesting that Iran is in possession of nuclear warheads acquired from the former Soviet republic of Kazakhstan."
—Steve Rodan, "Iran Paid $25m. For Nuclear Weapons, Documents Show," Jerusalem Post, 10 April 1998, <http://www.jpost.co.il>.

10 April 1998
In response to accusations that Russia supplied Iran with nuclear weapons in the early 1990s, Russian Foreign Ministry's spokesperson Gennady Tarasov asserts, "Russia has stated on many occasions that it has never rendered Iran any assistance in creating weapons of mass destruction." He adds, "Russian-Iranian cooperation in the nuclear sphere is orientated at purely peaceful and civil goals." [Note: See 13 April 1998 for an additional Russian response.]
—"Russia Denies Nuclear Arms Supplies to Iran," Interfax (Moscow), 10 April 1998; in "Russia Denies Supplying Nuclear Arms to Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980410000237, 10 April 1998.

11 April 1998
Labor MK Rafi Elul says that Israel and the United States have suspected for years that Iran acquired nuclear weapons smuggled from the former Soviet Union. Elul reportedly met with an unknown US source, reportedly with longtime connections to the Israeli government, in March 1998 who said that in 1995 she gave both the CIA and Israel Iranian government documents on Iran's successful efforts to obtain nuclear weapons.
—Steve Rodan, "MK Elul Says Israel, US Have Known of Iranian Nukes for Years," The Jerusalem Post, <http://www.jpost.co.il>, 12 April 1998.

12-13 April 1998
Russia's ambassador to Iran, Kostantin Shuvalov, visits the Bushehr nuclear power plant to inspect certain sections of the plant as well as the progress of the Russian specialists working on the plant. Shuvalov says that a completion date for the reactor would be announced at an upcoming meeting in Russia by the head of Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, Gholam Reza Aqazadeh. Russian Atomic Energy Minister Yevgeni Adamov says on 13 April 1998 that he "will try to persuade President Boris Yeltsin to authorize the sale of an experimental nuclear reactor to Iran." [Note: See 6 April 1998.] Adamov says that the "experimental installation" would be a research reactor using a uranium grade of less than 20 percent.
—"Russian Ambassador Visits Controversial Nuclear Plant In Iran," Agence France Presse, 12 April 1998.

13 April 1998
Georgy Kaurov, spokesperson for the Russian nuclear energy ministry, says that "no nuclear warheads of the former USSR and currently at Russia's disposal were either handed over or sold to other countries." His announcement comes in response to an article in the Jerusalem Post that alleges that Iran received two nuclear warheads from Kazakhstan. Kaurov assures that "not a single [warhead] has disappeared."
—"Nuclear Energy Minister Denies Russian Warhead Sales," Interfax, 13 April 1998; "Kazakhstan Denies Missile Sales To Iran," Agence France Presse, 15 April 1998, <http://guide-p.infoseek.com/>.

15 April 1998
Kazakhstani Foreign Minister Kasymzhomart Tokayev says that "Kazakhstan doesn't supply these types of weapons [nuclear warheads] to Iran and our cooperation is based on economic projects."
—"Nuclear Energy Minister Denies Russian Warhead Sales," Interfax, 13 April 1998; "Kazakhstan Denies Missile Sales To Iran," Agence France Presse, 15 April 1998, <http://guide-p.infoseek.com/>.

15 April 1998
Nikolay Kovalev, leader of the Russian FSB (Federal Security Service), reports that President Boris Yeltsin informed him of the need to stop illegal deals with Iran regarding dual-purpose technologies. The order comes after a report last week by the Jerusalem Post said the newspaper had documents relating to an exchange made in 1991 between Russia and Iran of two tactical nuclear warheads.
—Aleksnadr Shumilin, "Russia and Israel Warn United States of Iran's Attempts to Acquire Nuclear Weapons," Kommersant-Daily (Moscow), 15 April 1998, p. 5; in "TV Exposure Debunks Charge of Nuclear Tie With Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980415001082, 15 April 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 15 April 1998; in "Kazakhstan Denies Israeli Daily Report of Iran Warhead Sale," FBIS Document FTS19980415000908, 15 April 1998.

15 April 1998
At the annual meeting of the United Nations Disarmament Commission, Iran reasserts its stance regarding the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Iran's delegation, which includes senior officials of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, affirms that its country's use of nuclear technology is for scientific, medical, industrial, and agricultural purposes only.
—IRNA (Tehran), 15 April 1998; in "Iran Tells UN Commission Nuclear Research For Peaceful Use," FBIS Document FTS19980415000180, 15 April 1998.

16 April 1998
Following a series of Jerusalem Post articles saying that Iran acquired nuclear weapons from the former Soviet Union, two US Congressmen, Jim Saxton and Bill McCollum, say that they have closely followed Iran's military programs and that Iran "has obtained nuclear weapons as well as established a ballistic missile command-and-control system to launch them." They have called on the Clinton administration to form a new policy on Iran, in light of its nuclear weapons capability. The Congressmen's statements conflict with what the Defense and State departments allege about Iran's nuclear program. Saxton is chairman of the House Task Force on Terrorism and Unconventional Warfare, and McCollum is a former member of the task-force. Both say they have been receiving reliable information for years "that Iran has been obtaining nuclear weapon's parts and supplies from the former Soviet republics and Central Asia." McCollum says that Iran's policy indicates that "it already has nuclear weapons and is now trying to acquire a delivery system to launch them." McCollum supports his claims by citing the acquisition of ballistic missiles and the establishment and exercising of a distinct national-level command and control system as examples of Iran's capabilities.
—Steve Rodan, "Two US Congressmen Say Iran Has Nukes," Jerusalem Post, 16 April 1998, <http://www.jpost.co.il/>.

17 April 1998
A truck is stolen in Isfahan on its way to the Bushehr nuclear power plant, reportedly containing several pieces of welding devices. [Note: See 10, 13 May 1998 for more on the theft. See also 5 June 1998 for what is perhaps a related entry.]
—IRNA (Tehran), 13 May 1998; in "Iran: 'No Special Significance' To Stolen Truck's Contents," FBIS Document FTS19980513000452, 13 May 1998.

18 April 1998
Segodnya of Moscow reports that the US State Department essentially admitted its tactics to deter Russia from allowing the transfer of military and dual-purpose technologies to Iran will change to focus on individual firms. The reports asserts, "These firms will now face a 'red light': On plausible pretexts (not because of ties with Tehran) they will be refused grants and technical assistance." These firms are on a list, which Segodnya alleges, was made by the US government that includes some 20 Russian companies accused of transferring dual-purpose technologies to Iran.
—Georgiy Bovt, "United States Wages Undeclared War Against Russian Firms; Everyone Suspected of Being 'Soft on Iran' Will Be Subjected to Secret Sanctions," Segodnya (Moscow), 18 April 1998, p. 1; in "Russian Firms Face 'Informal Sanctions' Over Iran Ties," FBIS Document FTS19980420000215, 20 April 1998.

19 April 1998
Volodymyr Bronnikov, former director of the Zaporizhyzhya-based nuclear power plant, confirms that Russian and Iranian companies participating in the construction of Bushehr nuclear power plant approached him and Volodymyr Dudnyk, manager of the EnerhoDarBud construction company, about building an installation in Iran similar to the EnerhoDar site in Ukraine. Bronnikov says he refused the offer.
—Intelnews (Kiev), 19 April 1998; in "Ukrainian Nuclear Specialist Refuses To Work for Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980419000049, 19 April 1998.

22 April 1998
Mahmud Mohammadi, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, denounces US policy towards Iran and the White House's antipodal behavior. Mohammadi says such US activities insinuate hostility towards Iran that contradicts what Iran has promised to adhere to the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). "The Islamic Republic of Iran always wants the Middle East free from weapons of mass destruction," Mohammadi says.
—IRNA (Tehran), 22 April 1998; in "Iranian Spokesman Deplores 'Hostile' US Attitude," FBIS Document FTS19980422000821, 22 April 1998.

22 April 1998
Pakistani President Rafiq Tarar asserts that Pakistan has not and will not export nuclear technology to any country. "Neither we are [sic] helping the Iranian nuclear programme nor [do] we intend to do so."
—The Frontier Post (Peshawar), 22 April 1998, p. 5; in "Tarar: No Nuclear Technology Exported to Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980424002202, 25 April 1998.

23 April 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, Russian Minister of Atomic Energy, reports that Russia "is stepping up" work on the nuclear power plant in Bushehr, Iran, which now includes over 300 Russian specialists.
—Oleg Lebedev, RIA (Moscow), 23 April 1998; in "300 Russian Specialists Completing Bushehr Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980423000672, 23 April 1998.

23 April 1998
Mehdi Safari, the Iranian ambassador to Russia, says that Iran "has never intended" to have nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction. Safari further stresses that Iran and Russia have never had any intention to cooperate on developing missile technologies, citing Iran's adherence to International Atomic Energy Agency regulations.
—Interfax (Moscow), 23 April 1998; in "Envoy Says Iran 'Never Intended' To Have Nuclear Weapons," FBIS Document FTS19980423000625, 23 April 1998.

23 April 1998
British Foreign Secretary Robin Cook reveals that MI6, Britain's foreign espionage service, has thwarted Iran's efforts to obtain British nuclear technology in the past year. Cook states that MI6 and the GCHQ communications monitoring agency have "tracked Iran's nuclear weapons programme, and have enabled [Britain] to disrupt Iranian attempts to procure British technology."
—"British Secret Services Thwart Iranian Efforts to Get Nuclear Technology," Agence France-Presse, 23 April 1998; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu>.

26 April 1998
Russia announces it has captured 22 tons of nuclear missile parts destined for Iran from Russia via Azerbaijan. Natan Sharansky, a minister in charge of Israeli-Russian relations, speaks with Yevgeniy Primakov, the Russian Foreign Minister, about assuaging Israeli fears over Russian nuclear-technology transfers to Iran. Yediot Aharont of Tel Aviv opines that Russia made the announcement because of fears the United States will institute sanctions against Russian companies allegedly guilty of transferring nuclear technology to Iran. [Note: See also 7 April 1998.]
—Itamar Eichner, Mikhal Grievsky, and Eytan Glickman, Yediot Aharont (Tel Aviv), 26 April 1998, p. 10; in "Primakov Briefs Sharansky on Capture of Nuclear Components," FBIS Document FTS19980426000299, 26 April 1998.

28 April 1998
Yediot Aharonot of Tel Aviv reports that Russia agreed to provide Iran with knowledge regarding the production of heavy water, which can be used to build specific kinds of nuclear weapons. Israeli sources reporting the matter, state "If the Iranians can acquire on the black market a quantity of fissile material used to make nuclear bombs, it will accelerate their timetables." This report further states that Russian assistance may make it possible for Iran to develop not only nuclear capabilities, but chemical and biological as well.
—Arye Egozi, Yediot Aharonot (Tel Aviv), 28 April 1998, p. 19; in "Iran Receives Russian Heavy Water Production Expertise," FBIS Document FTS19980428000340, 28 April 1998.

29 April 1998
At a meeting with officers of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, IRGC commander Yahya Rahim Safavi says, "Can we withstand American's threats and domineering attitude with a policy of détente? Can we foil dangers coming from America through dialogue between civilizations? Will we be able to protect the Islamic Republic from international Zionism by signing conventions to ban proliferation of chemical and nuclear weapons?" [Note: According to Michael Eisenstadt, the IRGC is believed to control Iran's WMD and missile programs, giving Safavi's views on these matters much importance.]
—Agence France Presse, 29 April 1998; in Michael Eisenstadt, "Living With a Nuclear Iran?," Survival, 3 August 1999, pp. 124-48.

29 April 1998
Amnon Shahak, Israel's chief of staff, states in an interview with Qol Yisrael that he believes Iran does not currently possess nuclear weapons, but warns if Iran does acquire nuclear weapons in the future, it will represent a major threat to the stability of the region.
—Qol Yisrael (Jerusalem), 29 April 1998; in "Shahaq on Iranian Danger, PA Action Against Terrrorism," FBIS Document FTS19980429001161, 29 April 1998.

6 May 1998
A nuclear scientist from Pakistan denies there is any cooperation between Islamabad, Tehran, and Baghdad regarding nuclear weapons technology.
—IRIB Television (Tehran), 6 May 1998; in "Pakistan Scientist Denies Iran-Pakistan Nuclear Cooperation," FBIS Document FTS19980506001511, 6 May 1998.

7 May 1998
Alexander Maidannik, press secretary to Ukrainian President Leonid Kuchma, says Ukraine gets more benefits by not selling components for the Bushehr nuclear power plant than by participating in the project. [Note: See 6 March 1998.] He cites promises of US aid to Ukraine, including for the Kharhov region, where the plant that was to build turbines for the Bushehr project is located.
—"Ukraine Benefits From Quitting Bushehr Project—Spokesman," ITAR-TASS, 7 May 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

9 May 1998
Cable News Network reports that Iran hopes to obtain a second reactor from Russia, in addition to the Bushehr reactor, from Russia.
—"Iranian Nuclear Chief To Visit Russia Amid Controversy," CNN, 9 May 1998, <http://www.cnn.com/>.

10 May 1998
The Iran Daily reports that components destined for the Bushehr nuclear power plant were stolen in Isfahan. Yevgeniy Adamov, the Russian Atomic Energy Minister, believes the equipment does not represent any kind of radiation concern. According to Iranian officials, the truck, which belongs to the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), was carrying inconsequential parts destined for tests in Tehran. The AEOI believes the truck, and not the parts, was the target of the theft. [Note: See 17 April 1998 for the first report of the stolen truck.]
—"Components of Bushehr Plant Stolen," Iran Daily (Tehran), 10 May 1998, p. 1; in "Iran Daily on Theft of Bushehr Nuclear Plant Components," FBIS Document FTS19980513001663, 13 May 1998; Informatsionnoye Agentstvo Ekho Moskvy (Moscow), 10 may 1998; in "Russian Official: No Threat From Stolen Nuclear Parts," FBIS Document FTS19980510000365, 10 May 1998; Agence France Presse (North European Service) (Paris), 10 May 1998; in "Agence France Presse-Vehicle Carrying Iranian Nuclear Parts Disappears," FBIS Document FTS19980510000051, 10 May 1998.

10 May 1998
Iran announces that a delegation from the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran will visit Russia and China to "discuss nuclear cooperation for peaceful purposes." Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, AEOI head, will stay one week in Moscow to discuss nuclear cooperation between Tehran and Moscow, and the completion of the Bushehr power plant. The AEOI plans to make a similar visit to China within the year.
—IRNA (Tehran), 10 May 1998; in "Iranian Atomic Energy Chief to Visit Russia, China," FBIS Document FTS19980510000042, 10 May 1998.

11 May 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Nuclear Energy Minister, says it is not possible for nuclear technology used in the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran to be used for the manufacture of nuclear weapons. Adamov says the reactor "can under no circumstances be used for military purposes."
—"Russian Nuclear Hi-Tech to Iran 'purely peaceful': Moscow," Agence France Presse, 11 May 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

11 May 1998
In an interview with Radiostantsiya Ekho Moskvy, Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, cites the contradiction between US policy towards North Korea's reactor and the reactor in Bushehr as the reason why difficulties regarding reconciliation of differences over the Bushehr plant have been hard to resolve. Adamov says Iran's position regarding nuclear technology includes both nuclear weapon development and the peaceful use of nuclear energy. Future talks between Gholam Reza Agazadeh, Atomic Energy Organization of Iran chairman, and Adamov will focus on peaceful applications of nuclear technology, specifically, the Bushehr plant and a research reactor with 20% uranium enrichment for Iran. Adamov refutes accusations that Russia will provide assistance for a centrifuge for uranium enrichment.
—Radiostantsiya Ekho Moskvy (Moscow), 11 May 1998; in "Russian Atomic Energy Minister Interviewed," FBIS Document FTS19980511001552, 11 May 1998; Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 11 May 1998; in "Russian, Iranian Nuclear Officials To Meet in Moscow," FBIS Document FTS19980511000622, 11 May 1998.

12 May 1998
Yitzhak Mordechai, Israel's defense minister, proclaims the Muslim states of the Middle East represent the greatest threat to stability in the region. Iran specifically is singled out by Mordechai, who proclaims, "The biggest threat in this context comes undoubtedly from Iran, which strives to assemble missiles capable of reaching any target on our territory and to manufacture its own nuclear weapons." Mordechai further states Iran's desire to attain nuclear weapons must be countered by a strong Israeli response.
—Yitzhak Mordechai, "The Source of Our Strength," Russkiy Izrailtyanin (Tel Aviv), 12 May 1998, p. 6; in "Mordechai Views Elements Necessary To Safeguard Future," FBIS Document FTS19980512001371, 12 May 1998.

12 May 1998
Russian President Boris Yeltsin reassures US President Bill Clinton during a phone conversation that Russia is unaware of any Russian assistance to Iran's nuclear capabilities.
—Interfax (Moscow), 12 May 1998; in "Further on Yeltsin, Clinton Phone Call on India, Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980512001322, 12 May 1998.

12 May 1998
Prior to talks in Moscow, Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, confirms plans to build another reactor for the Iranian government. The reactor will be a 20% enriched uranium reactor for research purposes. Adamov says he and his Iranian counterpart, Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, will discuss the lack of progress made on the construction of the nuclear power plant in Bushehr, Iran. Yevgeniy Adamov further calls "for the expansion of cooperation in the peaceful use of nuclear energy between the two countries," though he states any work on additional nuclear power plants may delay completion of construction of Iran's Bushehr plant.
—Veronika Romanenkova, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 12 May 1998; in "Russia: Adamov on Upcoming Talks With Iran's Aqazadeh," FBIS Document FTS19980512000070, 12 May 1998; Qol Yisrael International Service (Jerusalem), 12 May 1998; in "Iran's Aqazadeh in Moscow To Discuss Atomic Energy," FBIS Document FTS19980512001316, 12 May 1998; IRNA (Tehran), 12 May 1998; in "IRNA: Russian Minister on Iran-Russia Nuclear Cooperation," FBIS Document FTS19980512000402, 12 May 1998.

13 May 1998
The Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI) reports the truck stolen on April 17 in Isfahan on its way to Bushehr, contained several pieces of welding devices. [Note: See 17 April, 10 May 1998 for more on the theft.]
—IRNA (Tehran), 13 May 1998; in "Iran: 'No Special Significance' To Stolen Truck's Contents," FBIS Document FTS19980513000452, 13 May 1998.

13 May 1998
During a visit to Oman, Rear Admiral Ali Akbar Ahmadian, Commander of the Iranian Navy, proclaims Iran "has no nuclear weapons and does not want to have any." He further states that Iran's facilities have undergone repeated IAEA (International Atomic Energy Agency) inspections that confirmed the absence of nuclear weapons in Iran on several occasions.
—Ahmad Anwar, "Commander of Revolutionary Guard Navy: 'Iranian-Omani Cooperation Guarantees Security of Navigation in Strait of Hormuz'," Al-Hayat (London), 13 May 1998, p. 4; in "Iranian Naval Aide on Cooperation With Oman, Other Issues," FBIS Document FTS19980513000938, 13 May 1998; Rafael Bikbayev, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 13 May 1998; in "Iranian Naval Commander on Nukes, Indian N-Tests, Maneuvers," FBIS Document FTS19989513001160, 13 May 1998.

13 May 1998
Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, and Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, discuss the bilateral contract for constructing the Bushehr nuclear power plant. Russian experts believe preliminary estimates of the cost of the project need to increase by $50 to $100 million to compensate for delays and Iran's mismanagement of the project. The two officials also discuss the "implementation of the contract, specifically questions of the transfer to the Russian side of full volume of work under the turn-key principle, with simultaneous employment of Iranian subcontractors."
—Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 13 May 1998; in "Iran Radio Commentary on Nuclear Cooperation With Russia," FBIS Document FTS19980513001016, 13 May 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 13 May 1998; in "Russian, Iranian Ministers Discuss Bushehr Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980513000403, 13 May 1998; ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 13 May 1998; in "ITAR-TASS Reports on Russian-Iranian Nuclear Plant Talks," FBIS Document FTS19980513000678, 13 May 1998.

14 May 1998
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (IAO) head, announces the completion of Bushehr power plant "will open a new chapter in Tehran-Moscow ties and will assure the Iranian nation and government that Russia is serious in expanding its ties with Iran." Georgiy Kaurov, ministry spokesman, tells Al-Hayah, that a tentative agreement regarding the possible construction of two more nuclear reactors for use as electric power generators, and a reactor for research use will be discussed.
—Jalal al-Mashitah, "Moscow Pledges Completion of Bushehr Station, Does Not Rule Out Supplying Tehran With Three Reactors," Al-Hayat (London), 14 May 1998, p. 4; in "Bilateral Cooperation on Nuclear Power to Continue," FBIS Document FTS19980514000387, 14 May 1998; IRNA (Tehran), 14 May 1998; in "Iran Nuclear Official, Kremlin Spokesman on Bushehr, Ties," FBIS Document FTS19980514000445, 14 May 1998.

14 May 1998
Aleksey Yablokov, former adviser on scientific and environmental issues in Russia, says in an interview that Yeltsin "banned the Atomic Energy Ministry from selling brand-new uranium enrichment technologies to Iran in 1995, but the part of the program covering training of Iranian scientists in Russia has remained in force."
—Anna Zafesova, "Those Hidden Bombs," Panorama (Milan), 14 May 1998, p. 117; in "Scientist Accuses Ministry of Nuclear Proliferation," FBIS Document FTS19980508000974, 8 May 1998.

14 May 1998
ITAR-TASS reports that Gennadiy Seleznev, the Russian State Duma Chairman, says he supports moves to solidify the relationship between Russia and Iran throughout "all spheres, including the construction of a nuclear power plant in Iran with the help of Russia."
—ITAR-TASS World Service (Moscow), 14 May 1998; in "Duma Speaker, Iranian Vice President Aqazadeh Hold Talks," FBIS Document FTS19980514001631, 14 May 1998.

15 May 1998
In response to the poor progress made on the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran, Yevgeniy Adamov, Russian minister of atomic energy, says Russia and Iran will explore methods to speed up construction of the nuclear power plant. Adamov reaffirms that "Iranian-Russian ties are profound and serious in all areas, including in the area of peaceful use of nuclear power." In response to US attempts to impede work between the two nations, Iran will cede most of the workload of the Bushehr plant construction over to Russia, an action that adds $50-100 million to the $800 million already agreed upon. [Note: See 13 May 1998.]
—Aleksey Zayko, "Russian Receives Exclusive Rights to Iranian Atoms," Russkiy Telegraf (Moscow), 15 May 1998, p. 4; in "Russian-Iranian Nuclear Prospects 'Extremely Promising'," FBIS Document FTS19980520000227, 20 May 1998; Denis Pinchuk, ITAR-TASS (Moscow), 15 May 1998; in "Iran To Speed Up Joint Construction of Bushehr Atomic Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980515001360, 15 May 1998.

15 May 1998
Mikhail Bogdanov, Russia's ambassador to Israel, says Israeli evidence purporting that Russia has given missile and nuclear technology to Iran is inaccurate. Bogdanov says "the Russian-Israeli dialogue on Iran and other Middle East issues will continue," an attitude he believes is confirmed by Deputy Foreign Minister Yevgeniy Primakov's visit with Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's Prime Minister.
—Steve Rodan, The Jerusalem Post (Jerusalem), 15 May 1998, p. 1; in "Envoy Denies Russia Supplying Nuclear Technology To Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980515000462, 15 May 1998.

15 May 1998
An Iranian delegation led by Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, president of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, visits the St. Petersburg Yefremov Electrophysical Apparatus Scientific Research Institute (EASRI) to "familiarize [Iran] with the scientific work of EASRI and to [sic] search for a 'common ground' in Russian and Iranian research." Vasiliy Glukhikh, director of NIIEFA, says that the institute conducts fundamental and applied research in fields specified in the agreement. These fields include controlled thermonuclear fusion, the peaceful use of nuclear energy, and the production and application of radioisotopes and laser technology. Glukhikh also says that the goal of the visit was a search for "common ground" in Russian and Iranian research.
—Denis Pinchuk, ITAR-TASS World Service (Moscow), 15 May 1998; in "Russian Nuclear Research Institute Chief on Iranian Visit," FBIS Document FTS19980515000790, 15 April 1998.

16 May 1998
Gennadiy Seleznev, chairman of the Russian State Duma, and Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of Russia's Atomic Energy Organization, meet to discuss the development of ties between Russia and Iran regarding the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant.
—"Duma Chairman, Iranian Atomic Energy Official Discuss Cooperation," BBC, 16 May 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

16 May 1998
Sergey Yastrzhembskiy, spokesman for Russian President Boris Yeltsin, says Russia will finish building the Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran, which he states is under the strict supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). He further states that no country should be prevented access to nuclear power, and that any allegations by "feverish minds in some US and Israeli media organizations" that Russia is providing missile technology to Iran are false.
—Interfax (Moscow), 16 May 1998; in "Spokesman Reiterates Peaceful Nature of Iran Nuclear Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980516000093, 16 May 1998.

16 May 1998
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, Iran's vice president, announces he will meet with the chiefs of Russia's Atomic Energy Ministry in an effort to determine "a new timetable and to break the deadlock" regarding construction delays of Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran.
—Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 16 May 1998; in "Atomic Energy Chief: Bushehr Construction Behind Schedule," FBIS Document FTS19980516000314, 16 May 1998.

17 May 1998
Russia proclaims that agreements with Iran made by Gazprom, Petronas, and Total regarding the construction of Bushehr's nuclear power plant are legitimate, and that any collaboration with the Iranian government over the nuclear technology is "based solely on peaceful relations."
—IRIB Television (Tehran), 17 May 1998; in "Russia: Oil, Bushehr Projects To Be Completed," FBIS Document FTS19980520000070, 20 May 1999.

18 May 1998
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, informs reporters in Russia that Iran "has never tried to use Russian nuclear technology for military purposes." Agreements pertaining to nuclear technology transfers between the Iran and Russia, he asserts, are based on a doctrine of peaceful collaboration. This collaboration is finalized in a protocol concerning the agreement between Russia and Iran over the building of Bushehr nuclear power plant in Iran. He announces Iran's interest in building new nuclear power stations and facilities. Aqazadeh asserts that for nuclear power stations to be efficient they must have research facilities to act as an adjunct, "to ensure normal operation of the nuclear plant."
—Interfax (Moscow), 18 May 1998; in "Aqazadeh: No MilItary Use For Russian Nuclear Technology," FBIS Document FTS19980519001737, 19 May 1998; Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 18 May 1998; in "Iran, Russia Finalize Protocol on Completing Bushehr Plant," FBIS Document FTS19980520000697, 20 May 1998; Interfax (Moscow), 18 May 1998; in "Iran Says Russian Assistance Has Priority in Nuclear Sphere," FBIS Document FTS19980518001177, 18 May 1998.

19 May 1998
Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of Atomic Energy Organization of Iran (AEOI), says Iran opposes nuclear tests by all countries. Aqazadeh says US claims that Iran is seeking to obtain a nuclear device are false, and that any program meant to develop a nuclear weapon does not exist. If the United States is serious about nonproliferation in the Middle East, Aqazadeh says, then it should limit its cooperation with Israel to develop nuclear missiles. At the same time, Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Minister of Nuclear Energy, reemphasizes the completion of the Bushehr nuclear power plant will not provide Iran with the means to develop nuclear weapons.
—"Iran: Atomic Energy Official Aqazadeh Dismisses 'Baseless US Claims'," BBC, 19 May 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>.

19 May 1998
Both Gholam Reza Aqazadeh, head of the Atomic Energy Organization of Iran, and Yevgeniy Adamov, Russia's Atomic Energy Minister, proclaim that the finalization of the protocols pertaining to the construction of the Bushehr nuclear power plant are based in part on the emphasis "that fossil fuels are finite resources and that it is necessary to obtain nuclear energy." Both ministers reaffirm their commitment to the laws established by the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), promising each country "will only make peaceful use of nuclear energy." Aqazadeh repeats his condemnation of America's "double standards" noting its sale of weapons to Israel.
—Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 19 May 1998; in "Iran 'Will Only Make' Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy," FBIS Document FTS19980520000622, 20 May 1998; Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 19 May 1998; in "Tehran Radio Comments on Iran-Russia Nuclear Agreement," FBIS Document FTS19980519001013, 19 May 1998.

19 May 1998
Benjamin Netanyahu, prime minister of Israel, asks Viktor Posuvalyuk, Russia's deputy foreign minister, to stop supplying arms to Iran, and to clarify Russia's position regarding its supplying of nuclear technology to Iran.
—Qol Yisrael (Jerusalem), 19 May 1998; in "Netanyahu Meets Posuvalyuk, Asks To Stop Arms to Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980520000497, 20 May 1998.

22 May 1998
Muhammad ElBaradi, director-general of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reaffirms the peaceful nature of Iran's and Russia's nuclear cooperation, assuring the international community that Russia's aid in helping Iran complete the Bushehr nuclear power plant will not prepare it for the production of nuclear weapons.
—IRNA (Tehran), 22 May 1998; in "IAEA Head Says Iran-Russia Nuclear Cooperation Peaceful," FBIS Document FTS19980522001233, 22 May 1998.

22 May 1998
In a move to emphasize what Israel believes is a dangerous matter, Natan Sharansky, Israel's Industry and Trade Minister, asks for promises from Sergey Kiriyenko, Russia's Prime Minister, that Russia will not provide missile technology to Iran. Kiriyenko assures Sharansky that "within the framework of our cooperation with countries in the Middle East and elsewhere, we will take no step that might affect Israel's security."
—Ada Kohen, Aviv Maariv (Tel Aviv), 22 May 1998, pp. 1, 2; in "Sharansky-Russian Aid To Iran Must Stop Within 'Weeks'," FBIS Document FTS19980522000319, 22 May 1998.

26 May 1998
Zhu Rongji, China's Prime Minister, confirms to Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, that China will not provide nuclear and ballistic missile technology to Iran. This promise comes as a result from China's 1995 agreement with the United States to reduce cooperation with Iran.
—IDF Radio (Tel Aviv), 26 May 1998; in "Arad Comments on China Talks; Netanyahu 'Satisfied' on Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980526000345, 26 May 1998.

28 May 1998
Ali Khurram, Iran's United Nations envoy in Geneva, states his country's opposition to the development of nuclear weapons in the Asian continent. Khurram stresses his country's adherence to the peaceful use of nuclear technologies and warns that India's weapons test risk heightening the arms race between India and Pakistan.
—Voice of the Islamic Republic of Iran (Tehran), 28 May 1998; in "Iranian UN Envoy Warns of Intensification of Arms Race," FBIS Document FTS19980528001330, 28 May 1998.

29 May 1998
Greenpeace International asks Iran not to "go nuclear" following nuclear weapons test conducted by India and Pakistan. Simon Caroll, nuclear and disarmament advisor to the Netherlands-based environmental and human rights group, says he "hopes that recent nuclear testings by India and Pakistan do not induce Iran and other countries in the Middle East to follow suit...though we have no evidence that Iran is moving in that direction."
—IRNA (Tehran), 29 May 1998; in "Greenpeace Urges Iran "Not To Go Nuclear'," FBIS Document FTS19980529000961, 29 May 1998.

29 May 1998
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mahmud Mohammadi calls on India and Pakistan to "stop immediately their atomic tests and the nuclear arms race and to sign the international conventions on banning nuclear tests."
—"Iran Demands Halt to Nuclear Tests by India, Pakistan," Agence France-Presse, 29 May 1998; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu>.

29 May 1998
Kamal Kharazi, Iran's foreign minister, proclaims Iran's concern over the intensification of nuclear rivalries in the Middle East, hoping nations of the region will join the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Kharazi, while on a visit to Ashgabat, tells IRNA that "we believe that the countries that were not prepared to join the talks on nuclear disarmament and to decide on the comprehensive elimination of atomic weapons, are guilty of causing these dangerous rivalries."
—IRNA (Tehran), 29 May 1998; in "Kharazi Says Iran Will Try To Create Nuclear Free Zone," FBIS Document FTS199805290001394, 29 May 1998.

30 May 1998
The Islamic Republic News Agency reports that the international mass media believes Iran is trying to obtain nuclear weapons in light of the successful tests in India and Pakistan. In response, Iran states, "It is rational as in the Iraqi crisis for Iran to adopt a rational stance and while stressing its commitment to Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and condemn both sides as being responsible for escalating tension in the region."
—IRNA (Tehran), 30 May 1998; in "Iranian Dallies Call For End to Nuclear Arms Race," FBIS Document FTS19980530000309, 30 May 1998.

1 June 1998
Admiral Ali Shamkhani, Iran's minister of defense, states that Iran believes the Middle East and the Persian Gulf should be free of non-conventional arms. Shamkhani emphasizes Iran's policy against any nuclear test conducted to further nuclear weapons manufacturing expertise. This statement comes as a result of nuclear tests conducted by India and Pakistan. Shamkhani says Iran will remain in compliance with the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty (CTBT), and opposes states in and outside the region that wish to obtain nuclear weapons. But he stresses the importance of allowing states to pursue peaceful use of nuclear technology.
—IRNA (Tehran), 1 June 1998; in "Defense Minister: Iran Against Development of Nuclear Arms," FBIS Document FTS19980601001200, 1 June 1998.

1 June 1998
Kamal Kharazi, Iran's foreign minister, tells journalists upon his arrival in Islamabad, Pakistan that Muslim countries are pleased with advances Pakistan has made regarding its nuclear capabilities. Kharazi points out that despite recriminations from international sources, the Islamic world understands Pakistan's decision to conduct nuclear tests, a choice he believes is understandable in light of India's recent detonation of a nuclear device. Though he is pleased with Pakistan's recent success, he hopes it will use restraint to reduce tensions in the region. Sanctions against Pakistan, Kharazi states, will be firmly opposed by Iran.
—Radio Pakistan Network (Islamabad), 1 June 1998; in "Minister Kharazi: Iran's Nuclear Program Peaceful," FBIS Document FTS19980601000975, 1 June 1998; IRNA (Tehran), 1 June 1998; in "Kharazi: Iran's Nuclear Program Peaceful, Under IAEA Watch," FBIS Document FTS19980601001398, 1 June 1998.

1 June 1998
Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's prime minister, says he is concerned about the proliferation of nuclear technology in western Asia, an area the Islamic Republic News Agency says alludes to Iran and Iraq. He further states his disapproval of the visit of Kamal Kharazi, communication advisor of the prime minister, to Pakistan, where it is assumed by the Israeli government that Iran is seeking to develop nuclear weapons. Iran claims that it does not approve of Pakistan's and India's nuclear tests, deeming them "destabilizing and dangerous."
—IRNA (Tehran), 1 June 1998; in "IRNA: Israel Resumes Disinformation Campaign Against Iran," FBIS Document FTS19980601001436, 1 June 1998.

2 June 1998
Upon his return from Pakistan and India, Kamal Kharazi, Iran's foreign minister, reports that "the atmosphere is conducive for Indo-Pak serious and comprehensive talks." He further states that both Pakistan and India are willing to put a temporary moratorium on further tests until negotiations are finalized. Both countries, he proclaims, show "positive signs" that they would be willing to sign the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) if it is "based on mutual confidence and on the framework of the military strength and capabilities of the two nations." Kharazi states that Iran "does not encourage the procurement and manufacture of nuclear weapons and that Iran is not at all interested in doing so." He believes Pakistan's detonation represents a symbol within the Islamic community of resolute opposition to what it believes is an Israeli threat. Iran's foreign minister further stresses Iran does not have a definitive plan regarding nuclear weapon procurement, and that it does "want to see that nuclear disarmament program become effective."
—IRNA (Tehran), 3 June 1998; in "Kharazi: Iran 'Not At All Interested' in Nuclear Weapons," FBIS Document FTS19980603001537, 3 June 1998.

5 June 1998
Zeev Schiff writes in an article in Haaretz that Israel's "window of opportunity" is at risk of shutting if it ignores the proliferation of nuclear technological endeavors taking place in the Middle East. He states that countries like Iran will inevitably transfer their technology to other nations and will cause an arms race in the region. Washington's resolve to limit Tehran's ability to produce a nuclear weapon is no longer palatable and its ability to discern whether a nation is nuclear capable, something it failed to due prior to India's detonation of a nuclear device, is no longer adequate. Schiff believes lack of transparency among Pakistan, India, and other nations in the region will cause a "guessing game" that will threaten the region's stability. He concludes that "although the dangers are great, Israel will probably stick even more firmly to its nuclear policy now that Pakistan has the bomb and now that the prospects of Iran going nuclear have increased."
—Zeev Schiff, "The Window of Opportunity is Closing," Haaretz (Tel Aviv), 5 June 1998, p. 6; in "Israel's Options for Curbing Iran Nuclear Race 'Limited'," FBIS Document FTS19980605000461, 5 June 1998.

5 June 1998
Iranian Judiciary Chief Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi says, "We are living at [a] time when the United States supports Israel, which has the biggest arsenals of the mass destruction and nuclear weapons [and] an atomic power is needed in the world of Islam to create a balance in the region."
—IRNA, 5 June 1998; in Michael Eisenstadt, "Living With a Nuclear Iran?," Survival, 3 August 1999, pp. 124-48.

5 June 1998
Shaykh Hamad Bin-Khalifa al-Thani, Qatar's Emir, says Iran's nuclear programs are for peaceful purposes, and "are transparent and under the International Atomic Energy Agency's (IAEA) supervision." Speaking at the French International Studies Institute, the Emir states Iran has shown a strong aversion to pursuing nuclear technology as a means to generate weapons.
—IRNA (Tehran), 5 June 1998; in "Iran: Qatari Emir Says Iran's Nuclear Program Peaceful," FBIS Document FTS19980605000281, 5 June 1998.

5 June 1998
A truck carrying equipment for a nuclear reactor is intercepted by the Kapitan Andreevo Border Checkpoint at the Bulgarian-Turkish border. Some documentation stated that the items were en route from Austria to Iran, while other documentation stated that the items were en route from France to Armenia. The Iranian Embassy in Baku denies the Iranian military or civilian involvement is trying to import the metal, although it did not rule out the use of this steel for civilian purposes by a private company. The Embassy calls a Russkiy Telegraf story reporting the matter "libelous" and states that it was an attempt by, "Zionist information circles" to cover up Israeli nuclear projects. [Note: See 17 April 1998 for what may be a related entry and 29 May and 27 December 2000 for other seizures/arrests at the Bulgarian border.]
—Azeri Paper Sees 'Iranian Hand' In Nuclear Smuggling, Zerkalo (Baku), 4 July 1998, pp. 5, 26, FBIS-SOV-98-188, 7 July 1998; ANS TV (Baku), 19 June 1998; in BBC Summary Of World Broadcasts, 23 June 1998; in "Authorities Arrest Four After Theft Of Radioactive Material," Lexis-Nexis, 23 June 1998, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; "Customs Officers Detect Nuclear Reactor Parts," Kontinent (Sofia), 6 June 1998, p. 1; in "More Details on Seizure of Reactor Parts at Border," FBIS Document FTS19980608000222, 8 June 1998.

7 June 1998
Sergey Karaganov, president of the Foreign and Defense Policy Council, says nuclear tests conducted by Iran and Pakistan are unlikely to produce a "domino-effect" of weapons production in other countries. Karaganov asserts it will take Iran ten years to produce a bomb.
—Interfax (Moscow), 7 June 1998; in "Russia: 'Threshold' States Not Ready To Test Nuclear Arms," FBIS Document FTS19980607000047, 7 June 1998.

8 June 1998
The Persian daily newspaper Kar-va-Kargar states that Iran needs a nuclear capacity to protect its national security: "Considering the nuclear capability of India, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and the Zionist regime (Israel), Iran's geopolitical situation demands a revision in this regard." Iran continues to deny accusations that it seeks weapons of mass destruction and maintains that it possesses a peaceful nuclear program that is open to inspection.
—Reuters, 8 June 1998; in Gulf 2000, <http://www1.columbia.edu>.

9 June 1998
Islamic Republic News Agency (IRNA) reports Iran has labeled accusations that it is working with Pakistan to develop nuclear weapons as "baseless." Mahmud Mohammadi, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman, says though Iran views an arms race between India and Pakistan as destabilizing, and it sees Pakistan's successful exploding of a nuclear device as providing an "Islamic deterrent" to Israel. Mohammadi dismisses Israeli concern as an attempt to divert attention away from its own nuclear program. Iran claims stability in the region can only be attained through the establishment of a nuclear-free zone in the Middle East. He further states Iran's stance "has always stressed that the South Asian regions and the Middle East eventually be non-nuclear zones."
—"Iran Denies Charge on Nuclear Technology Transfer," Xinhua News Agency, 9 June 1998; in Lexis-Nexis, <http://www.lexis-nexis.com>; IRNA (Tehran), 9 June 1998; in "Iran Denies Asking Pakistan To Transfer Nuclear Technology," FBIS Document FTS19980609000202, 9 June 1998.

10 June 1998
Turkey announces it is "uncomfortable" with Iran's efforts to develop nuclear arms, believing Iran will choose to pursue nuclear weapons development if South Asia's nuclear programs prove successful. Ambassador Korkmaz Haktanir, undersecretary of the Foreign Ministry, says Turkey is specifically wary of Iran acquiring nuclear technology.
—Selcuk Gultasli, "Iran Makes Turkey Uneasy," Zaman (Istanbul), 10 June 1998, p. 7; in "Turkish Unease at Nuclear Tests, Iran Arming Effort Seen," FBIS Document FTS19980611000673, 11 June 1998.

11 June 1998
Israel Wire reports that Pak