Iran lashed out at Russia on Tuesday for delays in completing the country's first nuclear power station, saying the situation underlined the need to produce nuclear fuel at home. "It is deplorable that there has been a delay in launching the Bushehr plant," top nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani was quoted as saying by the ISNA news agency.
"The Russians should keep their promises on time. "The situation shows there is no guarantee in the world for getting fuel. Iran's demand to provide and produce its fuel stems from this."
Russian firm Atomstroiexport has been building the power station in the southern city of Bushehr but this week announced the delivery of fuel was to be delayed amid mutual accusations of financing problems. Iran's atomic energy agency also issued a furious statement in which it blasted Russia for the delays and said Tehran was still expecting the fuel to be delivered in March. "According to the initial contract the plant was set to be launched on July 8, 1999. It has been delayed five times," it said.
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