VIENNA, Dec 21: Talks between Iran and the European Union’s big three powers ended on Wednesday with an agreement to hold more negotiations next month aimed at easing concerns about Iran’s atomic programme.

Wednesday’s ‘talks on talks’ in Vienna between the EU3 — France, Britain and Germany — and Iran were aimed at determining whether there was a basis for further discussion between the two sides.

“We agreed to continue our talks in January. Regarding the location, we have agreed on Vienna,” Javad Vaeedi, head of the Iranian delegation, told reporters.

The head of France’s delegation, Stanislav Laboulaye, was less firm on a meeting next month.

“The two sides agreed to consult their respective leaderships with a view to holding another round of talks in January, with the aim of agreeing a framework for negotiations,” Mr Laboulaye told reporters.

“Both sides set out their positions in an open and frank manner,” he added.

The EU wants Iran to abandon uranium enrichment, which can produce fuel for power stations or nuclear bombs, while Iran insists on its right to enrichment for peaceful purposes.

The West suspects Iran is seeking nuclear weapons under the cover of a civilian nuclear power programme. —Reuters