"Iran will not find security in the development of clandestine programs, but in its full insertion into the international community," Chirac told an annual gathering of French ambassadors in Paris.

"I exhort Tehran once more to take the necessary steps in order to create the conditions for trust. There is always room for dialogue," Chirac said.

"Iran is a great country. But the recognition of its role also gives it obligations: to ease the concerns of others and work towards regional stability, as befits a major, responsible country," he added.

On Aug 22, Iran refused a package deal proposed by the five permanent members of the UN Security Council and Germany, which gave Tehran until August 31 to comply or face the threat of sanctions.

Iran's top nuclear negotiator Ali Larijani later said that Iran was ready to discuss its nuclear program at ministerial level, but not to suspend or give up enriching uranium.