President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad ordered the head of the Atomic Energy Organization (AEO) to start 20 percent uranium enrichment operations.

The president issued the order while he was inspecting an exhibition organized by Iran's Center for Laser Sciences and Technology.

Addressing experts attending the exhibition, he stressed the high potential of Iranians in different sectors and, outlining the process of Iran's nuclear talks, said: "we had already told them we were ready to exchange nuclear fuel though we possessed the know how to produce 20-percent enriched uranium but they chose to go to another direction."

He addressed the head of the Atomic Energy Organization, saying: "start production of 20-percent enriched uranium using the centrifuges you possess."

"The door for interaction is wide open but if anybody intends to press the Iranian nation that will not work," Ahmadinejad said.
 
The first exhibition showcasing the latest achievements of Iranian scientists and experts in the field of laser and optics which was opened by President Ahmadinejad earlier on the day, includes many items designed and developed by Iranian experts to be used in medical areas.

After inspecting different parts of the exhibition, Ahmadinejad agreed with a proposal by his deputy for technical and scientific affairs to establish a permanent exhibition to showcase the most advanced and outstanding achievements of Iranian scientists.