India backs Russian efforts on Iran crisis

Russia has suggested that Tehran's uranium fuel be enriched on Russian soil rather than in Iran, a proposal backed by China, which also wants other countries to consider the plan.

"India welcomes all initiatives, including from Russia, which could enable a consensus to be reached on this issue and urges further intensive efforts in that direction," its foreign ministry spokesman said in a statement.

India is in a tight spot over the Feb. 2 meeting at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on the issue after it surprised Tehran in September by siding with the West when the nuclear watchdog declared Iran had failed to comply with its international obligations.

That stand triggered a domestic furore with coalition allies as well as opposition groups accusing India of selling out to the United States.

The United States and its European Union allies say the IAEA should send Iran's file to the United National Security Council.

India's woes were further compounded this week after the US ambassador to New Delhi, David Mulford, linked India's vote to clinching a landmark civilian nuclear energy cooperation deal between New Delhi and Washington.

Although Mulford expressed regret over his comments following protests by New Delhi, India's role at the IAEA meeting is being keenly watched.