Iran says Vienna talks "serious, intensive"

Iran and the world powers have started "serious and intensive" talks over the Islamic republic's disputed nuclear program in the Austrian capital of Vienna, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Marzieh Afkham said on Wednesday.

The expert-level talks are underway, she said, adding that both sides have attended the talks with new initiatives. She also dismissed some western media's speculations about the outcome of the ongoing talks.

Negotiators between Iran and P5+1 group (Permanent members of the UN Security Council plus Germany) are making a last effort to bridge the gaps over some key issues in Vienna which will probably continue until the Nov. 24 deadline.

Disagreements still remain on some key issues, which include defining the size and scope of Iran's nuclear program, particularly the number of centrifuges Iran will operate and sanction relief. Enditem