Russia Favors Advance in Iran Nukes Talks

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has voiced readiness to assist in the advancement of Iran's nuclear talks and to help resolve the standoff with the West.

In a telephone conversation with Iran's Foreign Minister Manouchehr Mottaki on Thursday, Lavrov also stressed the need for a viable diplomatic and political solution to the nuclear issue, IRNA reported.

The two top diplomats also discussed Tehran's joint nuclear declaration with Brazil and Turkey and other subjects of mutual interest, the details of which have yet to be disclosed.

On Wednesday, Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad cautioned Russia to refrain from "creating a situation that could make the Iranian people place Russia within the ranks of their historic enemies."

His comments came after Russia decided to back a US-proposed UN Security Council resolution against Iran.