Iran not opposed to U.S. talks on Iraq

TEHRAN, Jan. 6 (UPI) -- U.S. President George Bush's trip to the Middle East is an attempt to push compromise "despite all opposition," an Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman said.

Mohammad-Ali Hosseini said Sunday the Bush administration would like to control some regional policies, the Islamic Republic News Agency reported. Bush is scheduled to travel to the region this week.

"The U.S. authorities are trying to accelerate the process of compromise, despite all opposition, in the region," Hosseini said.

Regarding the next round of U.S.-Iran talks on Iraq, Hosseini said, "Tehran is not opposed to the talks. We have announced our views to the Iraqi side and are waiting for their response."

However, "the U.S. commitment to the outcome of the talks tops Iran's considerations," he said.

Hosseini also confirmed that a German diplomat was expelled from Iran for involvement in "undiplomatic activities," IRNA reported.