A nuclear war of words

A nuclear war of words

The Munich Security Conference has grown over more than 40 years to become an important point in the calendar for those interested in such things.

It started with the idea of addressing the stand-off in Europe between the US and the West, and the powerful Soviet bloc.  Now, the changing global situations throws up many more issues, many more questions.

The most talked about topic here over the first two days has been Iran and the country's controversial nuclear programme.

In a late night session, Manouchehr Mottaki, the Iranian foreign minister, made his country's position clear: soon there will be a deal which will see his country send its enriched uranium abroad to be returned as "safer" fuel rods.  The most important word there is soon.

But Western politicans simply don't believe it.  First up was Germany's Foreign Minister, Guido Westerwelle who said:

 "Our hand is still reaching out towards them. But so far it's reaching out into nothingness.  And I've seen nothing since yesterday that makes me want to change that view."

The US National Security advisor, General James Jones went further, warning Tehran that unless there was movement on the issue, it faced more sanctions and further international isolation.

But the problem is, any move for further sanctions at the moment would fall flat, because the Chinese want more discussion and more negotiation.

The cynics here say Iran is playing for time. By talking about a deal, it can delay a deal.  It can put off talk of sanctions.  It can advance the nuclear programme even more. 

This is a messy war of words.  It will continue until someone takes action.  Then it might all become clearer.