Russia and Iran have held consultations on the nuclear issue, the press service of the Russian Security Council said on Tuesday.

Russian Security Council Secretary Igor Ivanov and Deputy Chairman of Iran's Supreme National Security Council Ali Hosseinitash were heads leading the talks, the Itar-tass news agency reported.

Russia confirmed its commitment to the diplomatic way of dealing with the problem with the use of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) capabilities.

"During the talks, the Russian side reiterated its attachment to diplomatic means for resolving the problem using the means of the IAEA," the Russian Security Council said in a statement.

The consultations will continue, the statement said.

Russia proposed last December that Iran transfer its uranium enrichment to the Russian territory, holding that the offer would secure Iran's legal nuclear rights while guaranteeing the peaceful use of the technology.

However, earlier talks between Russia and Iran has not produced any breakthrough.

At the same time, the United States is seeking efforts to refer Iran's nuclear issue to the UN Security Council for possible sanctions.

In addition, U.S. President George W. Bush signed an executive order on Monday to extend U.S. economic sanctions against Iran in effect since 1995.

Iran has denounced the involvement of the Security Council, vowing never to give in to pressures and bullies.

Iran would not abandon its drive to produce nuclear fuel by " the harsh statements and pressures by the U.S. and its allies", Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad said Tuesday in the northeastern city of Gorgan in a speech broadcast live on state television.

Source: Xinhua