IRAN:The European Union said it was disappointed after talks with Iran yesterday - seen as a last chance to avert US pressure for tougher international sanctions over Tehran's atomic programme.
The stalemate means six world powers, meeting in Paris today, will try to agree new penalties to propose to the UN, despite differences in their approach to halting Iran's nuclear programme.
EU foreign policy chief Javier Solana said: "I have to admit that after five hours of meetings I expected more. I am disappointed." He added he would meet Iran's negotiator Saeed Jalili again before the end of December.
Iran, which had earlier vowed to pursue its disputed atomic programme come what may, said it thought the negotiations had been "positive" and that talks would continue.
Iran says enrichment efforts are meant only to produce electricity.