The discussions would take place on Thursday lunchtime, a Foreign Office spokeswoman said, and would also cover subjects such as the situation in Iraq.

"Mr Straw is meeting Dr Kharazi tomorrow to continue a dialogue on bilateral issues and issues of mutual interest such as Iraq and discussions on Iran's nuclear armaments," she said.

"Iran and Britain have a mutual interest in a stable, prosperous and democratic Iraq."

Britain has been among a number of countries which have expressed grave concerns about Tehran's lack of openness over its nuclear ambitions.

Iran was severely reprimanded last year by the International Atomic Energy Agency, the United Nations' nuclear watchdog, for failing to reveal a full account of its nuclear activities.

But last December, Iran bowed to international pressure by signing up to an additional protocol to the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty, allowing a tougher IAEA probe.

Earlier Wednesday, Kharazi held talks in Paris with French President Jacques Chirac, who urged Iran to cooperate "in a constructive way" with European countries and the IAEA.

WAR.WIRE