Japan joins global calls urging Iran to halt nuclear program
(AP)
Updated: 2006-01-11 10:55

Japan's government on Tuesday protested Iran's move to remove U.N. seals on some equipment at its uranium plant and resume nuclear research.

"Japan deems it a matter of deep regret," the Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding that Tehran's decision disregards "the concerns of international community."

"Japan strongly calls on Iran to immediately cease the resumption of the research and development activities," it said.

Iran said Tuesday it had removed the seals on its nuclear research facilities, allowing work to resume despite Western countries' concerns over its nuclear ambitions.

U.S. officials denounced the move, calling it a step toward creating material for nuclear bombs. Germany's foreign minister raised doubts over the future of European-led negotiations on Iran's nuclear program, questioning whether there remains any basis for more talks.

Britain warned that the international community was "running out of patience" with Tehran, and Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said Iran had breached resolutions by the U.N. nuclear watchdog, the International Atomic Energy Agency.

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