White House says 1st round of US-Iran talks 'positive'

CHICAGO -- US special presidential envoy Steve Witkoff met with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Saturday and had "very positive and constructive" discussions, said the White House.

"Special Envoy Witkoff underscored to Dr Araghchi that he had instructions from President (Donald) Trump to resolve our two nations' differences through dialogue and diplomacy, if that is possible," it said in a statement.

"These issues are very complicated, and Special Envoy Witkoff's direct communication today was a step forward in achieving a mutually beneficial outcome," it said, adding that the two sides plan to meet again next Saturday.

Earlier Saturday, Iranian media also described the talks as "constructive" and revealed plans for more discussions next week.

The meeting marked the first time the United States and Iran engaged directly since Trump returned to the White House.

Trump has repeatedly said Iran needs to rapidly reach a deal that makes sure it can't obtain a nuclear weapon or will face the prospect of military strikes.