BEIJING, Jan. 17 -- Russian President Vladimir Putin says Russia has very close positions on the Iranian problem with its European partners and the United States after meeting with German Chancellor Angela Merkel in Moscow.

    But he warns the crisis should be solved "without abrupt, erroneous steps", a possible nod to concerns of some that a rapid push toward U.N. sanctions could backfire.

    Putin says Tehran has not ruled out a Russian proposal to enrich uranium for Iran on Russian territory.

    "We've heard various opinions from our Iranian partners on that issue. One of them has come from the Foreign Ministry. Our partner told us they did not exclude the implementation of our proposal. In any case, it's necessary to work carefully and avoid any sharp, erroneous moves." Putin said.

    He adds the Russian compromise deal is still in play.

    The Russian proposal to enrich uranium on Iran's behalf has been welcomed by the West as a possible way out of the Iranian nuclear question, but has yet to receive a definite response from the Iranians themselves.

    Putin also pledges continued cooperation with Europe and the United States in promoting a solution to the issue.

    
    (Source: CRIENGLISH.com)