Tehran, Nov 18

Iran's uranium enrichment activities is an inalienable right endorsed by the Nuclear Non- Proliferation Treaty (NPT) of which the Islamic republic is a signatory country, Iranian government said Sunday.

"Iran's enrichment right does not need recognition (by the powers), because it is an indispensable right based on the NPT. What we expect is respecting this right," reported Xinhua citing Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif.

"Iran has practised its uranium enrichment rights over the past years," he said, adding this right has not been respected and sanctions have been imposed against the country.

Zarif said the world powers need to lift sanctions against Iran and respect the country's rights.

"We believe that Iran's enrichment right is non-negotiable and there is no necessity to recognize it as a right, because it is an inseparable right which should be respected by all sides."

The Iranian foreign minister's remarks came a few days ahead of fresh round of talks between Iran and world major powers.

Iran and six world powers held talks earlier this month in a bid to reach a preliminary agreement on Iran's nuclear programme. While the talks fell apart, a second round is slated for next Wednesday. 

By:IANS