Iran's official news agency reports that the country's foreign minister has said that inspectors from the UN's nuclear watchdog can extend an ongoing visit to the Islamic Republic.

The Monday, Jan 30 report by IRNA says Ali Akbar Salehi told Turkish TRT TV in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, that the three-day visit by International Atomic Energy Agency inspectors that started Sunday can be extended "if they desire."

The remarks appear to be part of a show of flexibility and transparency by Tehran during the IAEA inspection tour, which could greatly influence the direction and urgency of U.S.-led efforts to rein in Iran's ability to enrich uranium, AP reports.

The West suspects Iran is pursuing weapons technology. Iran insists that its program is for peaceful purposes.