Enrichment devices go offline

Iran has begun shutting down uranium enrichment centrifuges under the terms of a deal struck with six world powers in July on limiting its nuclear program, Teheran's atomic energy chief said on Monday during a visit to Tokyo.

"We have already started to take our measures vis-a-vis the removal of the centrifuge machines - the extra centrifuge machines. We hope in two months' time, we are able to exhaust our commitment," Ali Akbar Salehi told NHK.

NHK's website also quoted Salehi as saying it was important that there be "balance" in implementing the deal, signaling Teheran's stance that all sanctions against Iran should be lifted promptly in step with its dismantling of its nuclear infrastructure.