16-07-09 Clinton sends warning to Iran

In her first comprehensive policy address since becoming secretary of state nearly six months ago,Hillary Clinton on Wednesday called for a "multi-partner'' - as opposed to a "multi-polar" - world and defended President Barack Obama's policy of engagement with adversaries,including Iran.But she also warned Tehran that time is growing short for it to decide whether to take up Washington's offer of direct negotiations on its nuclear program and asserted that its repression of opposition forces that have protested last month's disputed elections has "certainly shifted" the prospects for success of any engagement policy."Iran can become a constructive actor in the region if it stops threatening its neighbors and supporting terrorism," she said."It can assume a responsible position in the international community if it fulfills its obligations on human rights." "The choice is clear.We remain ready to engage with Iran,but the time for action is now.The opportunity will not remain open indefinitely," she warned