French President Nicolas Sarkozy has welcomed the launch of Iran's first nuclear power plant.

He said France backs Iran's drive to develop its nuclear power industry but only if it complies with international norms.

"[France] greets the launch of the Bushehr Nuclear Power Plant whose fuel is supplied and will be supplied by Russia," Sarkozy said.

Iran began to load fuel into the Russian-built Bushehr power station on August 21. Russia will operate the station, supplying the fuel and removing the waste, but agreed to delegate full control to Iran in two or three years - an announcement met with much criticism in the West that suspects Iran of pursuing nuclear weapons.

Tehran says its nuclear program is aimed at the peaceful generation of civilian energy.

On June 9, 2010, the UN Security Council approved a fourth round of sanctions against Iran over its nuclear program, including tougher financial controls and an expanded arms embargo, as well as an asset ban on three dozen companies and a travel freeze on individuals.

Later, the United States and the European Union imposed extra sanctions against Iran, including tougher restrictions on the energy sector and a tougher trade embargo.

PARIS, August 25 (RIA Novosti)