WORKMEN WALK AWAY FROM THE BUSHEHR NUCLEAR PLANT UNDER CONSTRUCTION IN SOUTHERN IRAN, 2003-03-11 (photo)

Workmen wearing protective clothing walk away from the Russian-built Bushehr nuclear power reactor under construction in southwestern Iran during an organised media visit to the plant on March 11, 2003. Officials told journalists that the plant, which Washington fears is part of a programme to build nuclear weapons, would receive its first shipment of enriched uranium from Russia in May. The 1000 MW plant is due to become operational in the second half of 2004. Iran denies any intention of building nuclear weapons but the United States on March 11 urged Iran to accept tighter inspections by the International Atomic Energy Agency. REUTERS/Morteza Nikoubazl PJH/FMS