Iran says progress made on oil sanctions at Geneva talks

GENEVA — Iran's National Oil Company director general Hamid Bord said Saturday that the lifting of oil sanctions and related exemptions were discussed during four-party peace talks in Switzerland, adding that Iran has resumed oil exports through the Gulf after a maritime blockade was lifted. Speaking to reporters as part of Iran's delegation in Switzerland, Bord said Iranian tankers in the initial phase have crossed a restrictive virtual line and set course for designated destinations. He added that in recent days, roughly half of Iran's monthly oil exports have been shipped abroad. Bord said that once the memorandum of understanding is fully implemented, exports will continue without interruption. He said the file on investments and the removal of oil sanctions is being pursued seriously in the negotiations, noting that amendments have been presented to the U.S. side. Bord expressed hope that the proposed changes could be implemented. No further details on the timeline or the specific amendments were immediately available.