PARIS, May 2: The five major UN powers and Germany wrapped up talks here on Tuesday without a final agreement on how to tackle Iran over its nuclear programme, but more talks are scheduled, US official Nicholas Burns said. Mr Burns, number three in the US State Department, told journalists: “We certainly do not yet have an agreement. This is going to require more talks in New York and our ministers are going to have to meet, no question about it.”

He hinted at frustration at permanent Security Council members Russia and China, which are resisting a tough UN resolution on Iran.

“It’s time for countries to take responsibilities, especially those countries that have close relationships with Iran,” he said.

Earlier US and European officials pushed for a tough, binding UN resolution against Iran in key talks here on Tehran’s nuclear programme.

“The Security Council has no option but to proceed with Chapter 7,” US State Department No. three Nicholas Burns said, referring to an article in the UN charter that could lead to sanctions or military action.—AFP