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Turkey has offered to mediate between Iran and the West in the dispute over Iran's nuclear programme.

The Turkish foreign minister, Ahmet Davutoglu, announced the offer after talks with his Iranian counterpart Manouchehr Mottaki.

Western powers say Iran is trying to develop nuclear weapons, and the US and its European allies have been pushing for new sanctions against Tehran.

Iran says its nuclear programme is for peaceful purposes.

Last year, Turkey offered to store Iran's uranium as part of a deal for Iran to send low-enriched uranium abroad to be turned into fuel rods.

The plan faltered, but on Tuesday Mr Davutoglu said Turkey could help revive a diplomatic solution.

"If such a will exists from our Iranian friends and if they think it prudent that we play a role, we will do so," he said.

"Turkey, as a third country, is ready to play an intermediary role in the uranium swap and Iran's other nuclear issues."