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France called for unprecedented sanctions if Iran continues to defy the world over its atomic programme. France Wenesday called for unprecedented sanctions if Iran continues to defy the

world over its atomic programme after the UN nuclear watchdog said Tehran had worked on nuclear weapons technology. "If Iran refuses to abide by the demands of the international

community and rejects all serious cooperation, we are prepared to adopt, with those countries that follow, unprecedented sanctions," the foreign ministry said in a statement. "The

unprecedented report that the International Atomic Energy Agency has just published strengthens France's profound concern about Iran's nuclear programme," it said. The

ministry said that activities noted in the IAEA's report "are in violation of UN Security Council resolutions and the IAEA's governing council. They have no credible civil

purpose." The report's elements on "militarisation activities, along with the accumulation of enriched uranium and the intensive pursuit of ballistic tests paint a picture

that leaves little doubt about Iran's intentions." "All of this means that Iran has sought, and apparently continues to seek, the nuclear bomb under the cover of an alleged

civilian and peaceful programme." The IAEA's report yesterday said it had "serious concerns regarding possible military dimensions to Iran's nuclear programme."

"This information indicates that Iran has carried out activities relevant to the development of a nuclear explosive device," it said.