Today, Under Secretary Sherman called GCC Secretary General Abdullatif al-Zayani to discuss the May 23-24 negotiations with Iran in Baghdad. She reaffirmed our commitment to preventing Iran from acquiring a nuclear weapon and to maintaining pressure on Iran to comply with its international obligations, even as E3+3 countries pursue negotiations. They also discussed ongoing developments in the region, including political, economic, and other issues of mutual concern. Under Secretary Sherman said that she had hoped to brief the GCC in person, but negotiations extending into the night on the second day and inclement weather prevented her travel to Saudi Arabia to meet with all GCC country representatives. She said she looked forward to briefing the ambassadors of GCC countries upon her return to Washington.
