TEHRAN – Iranian Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki seemed optimistic about the outcome of nuclear talks between Tehran and the 5+1 group set for mid-November.

Mottaki’s remarks came following the European Union foreign policy chief’s proposal for a new round of talks over Iran’s nuclear program in mid- November in Vienna.
Catherine Ashton made the proposal in Brussels on Thursday and called for direct talks with Iranian officials.
Mottaki, who was speaking to reporters on Friday upon his arrival in Brussels, said, “(I) am optimistic about fruitfulness of Iran’s talks with the 5+1 (the U.S., Britain, France, China, Russia and Germany).”
He also said the Islamic Republic has heretofore proposed late October or early November for the talks.
Mottaki added diplomats are always optimistic people.
The main bone of contention between Tehran and the West is Iran’s nuclear enrichment program. As a signatory to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, Iran has legal right to produce nuclear fuel for peaceful purposes.
Mottaki visited Brussels on Friday to attend “Friends of Democratic Pakistan” conference.
Saeed Jalili, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council and chief nuclear negotiator, said on Friday that dialogue with Iran is the “only proper choice for the 5+1 group.