Iran’s nuclear programme, especially its enrichment profile, has for long been a bone of contention with the 
West. However, it is a good sign that Teheran is walking the extra mile to oblige the interna-tional community, that too by respecting the deadline of September 2.

Burdened by sanctions and isolated diplomatically, Iran is at the crossroads. How articulately Teheran sells its resynchronized nuclear strategy, and how far that can pacify the West and the United States, is anybody’s guess. But the point is that Iran and the world are talking to each other, and are focused on addressing the contentious issues. This is most promising.

A cautious and careful West will, however, be keeping its fingers crossed. It will be hoping to see Iran respond genuinely to its concerns and that it becomes part and parcel of the international community by shunning its self-conceived isolation. Apart from the nuclear dimension, US President Barack Obama’s offer for direct talks also needs to be reciprocated. International nuclear inspectors will also be looking to see that Iran clears up allegations over past experiments related to weapons production before handing 
it a clean chit. And for all this to happen, the 
German meet should neither be a time-buying exercise nor lead to a kneejerk reaction on Teheran’s submissions.

The brewing domestic unrest, in the wake of impugned June 12 presidential election, must have definitely unnerved the Islamic republic. Rising inflation and a despicable state of economy has pushed the second most oil rich nation in dire straits. Coupled with this are the sanctions and threat of war, which take a heavy toll. Such a scenario hardly provides any space for Iran to manoeuvre its nuclear ambitions. It would, thus, be prudent of Iran to uphold the international norms and regulations, and address all the grievances on Uranium enrichment. Iran can see an opportunity in adversity, as the world, including the US, now wants to reward it for trading its secretive policy with one declared on the table. Teheran should rush to make the critical choice.