US Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice says the United States is prepared to negotiate with Iran over its nuclear program.

Dr Rice says talks can begin at any time, if Iran suspends its uranium enrichment work.

“We’re perfectly ready to talk to Iran,” she said.

“But what we don’t want to do is to give Iran cover to continue improving its nuclear programs, that could lead to a nuclear weapon.

“No one in the international community wants to see Iran with a nuclear weapon.”

The United Nations Security Council imposed sanctions on Iran last week for its refusal to suspend nuclear work, which the West believes is aimed at building atomic bombs.

Iran claims its goal is to generate electricity.