AFP, United Nations, Sept 23, 2009 – French President Nicolas Sarkozy Wednesday warned Iran against ’making a tragic mistake’ in pursuing its suspect nuclear program as he addressed the UN General Assembly.
’I would like to say in a solemn manner to the Iranian leaders, that if they rely on a passive response from the international community in order to pursue their military nuclear program, they will be making a tragic mistake.’
His comments came ahead of talks by the chief diplomats of the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France as well as Germany later Wednesday to prepare for key talks with Iran in Geneva next week.
In an interview with French television before his speech to the United Nations, Sarkozy said a December deadline must be set for Iran to show progress in talks with world powers on its suspect nuclear program.
’There will be a deadline and in my view it’s December,’ Sarkozy said when asked about the prospect of sanctions against Iran if the stalemate continues over Tehran’s nuclear activities.
Addressing the UN General Assembly, Sarkozy said changes had to be made around the world.
’Tomorrow’s world can no longer resemble yesterday’s. Now we all know towards what catastrophes our obstinate attempts to solve the problems of the 21st century with 20th century ideas and instruments may lead us.’