Sanctions against Iran possible, but 'not optimal' - Medvedev -New Iran sanctions: A question of when, not if

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Russian President Dmitry Medvedev has reiterated that fresh sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program are possible, but "not optimal," the Kremlin press service said on Saturday.

In his message to the annual summit of the 22-nation Arab League, which kicked off in Libya earlier in the day, Medvedev said that "the settlement of Iran's nuclear problem should be implemented solely by politic-diplomatic means in strict accordance with the Charter of the United Nations."

"[We are] certain that the path of sanctions is not an optimal one. At the same time the possibility that events may develop along this scenario cannot be ruled out," he said.

"One must clearly understand that the sanctions should be well-considered and not aimed at Iran's civilian population," he added.

Iran's recent move to begin enriching uranium to 20% sparked a wave of international criticism, with the U.S. leading calls for new harsher sanctions against the Islamic Republic. Western powers suspect that Iran's nuclear program is aimed at making weapons, while Tehran claims it is pursuing nuclear technology for its civilian energy needs.

In his message, Medvedev reiterated that Russia views the Arab League as an important partner, with which to build up cooperation on a wide range of international issues, from combating the repercussions of the global economic crisis to the energy sphere.

"We regard the signing in December 2009 of a memorandum on establishing a Russian-Arab cooperation forum as a significant landmark on this path. I am confident that its activities will enrich and expand our multidimensional relations. [We are] intend to continue participating in collective action to resolve regional problems in the Middle East and North Africa."