Iran signed an additional protocol to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in Vienna on Thursday, winning wide praise from the international community. 

Iran's representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Ali Akbar Salehi, signed the agreement at the United Nations nuclear watchdog's headquarters, allowing snap inspections of its nuclear facilities.

The move was welcomed immediately by the IAEA, the European Union (EU), the United States, Russia, Britain and other countries and organizations.

IAEA chief Mohamed ElBaradei said Iran's signature would help boost confidence that its nuclear ambitions were peaceful. "I was assured that Iran, until the protocol is ratified, will act as if the protocol is in force," ElBaradei said.

Christopher Patten, European commissioner responsible for external affairs, said: "The signature of the additional protocol today is good news as it will help in establishing the international community's confidence in Iran's assurance about the peaceful nature of its nuclear program and its commitment to non-proliferation."

United States ambassador to the IAEA, Kenneth Brill, said Iran's signature of the agreement was "a step in the right direction."

Russia also welcomed the news, Foreign Ministry spokesman Alexander Yakovenko said: "We welcome this crucial step taken by the Iranian leadership, which points to Tehran's commitment to consistently moving along the road toward complete transparency of its nuclear program."

British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw said in response to Iran's move: "I welcome the access already being granted to IAEA inspectors. This is an important step towards rebuilding international confidence in Iranian intentions regarding its nuclear program."

The conclusion of the protocol came after the IAEA adopted a resolution in September, censuring Iran for its covert nuclear activities.

IAEA inspectors will, under the protocol, have the power to carry out searches at two hours' notice, and also the right to demand information from private entities, and to collect environmental samples in wider areas to check radiation levels.

(Xinhua News Agency December 19, 2003)