The U.N. nuclear watchdog chief praised Iran on Monday for showing increased openness about its nuclear program, asserting that it implemented all related measures as planned.

The U.N. nuclear watchdog chief praised Iran on Monday for showing increased openness about its nuclear program, asserting that it implemented all related measures as planned.

Amano said Iran's engagement with the U.N. agency under a step-by-step cooperation and transparency pact reached in November - which includes greater access and more information - had helped the IAEA "gain a better understanding" of the program.

"I welcome the fact that the practical measures agreed with Iran ... have been implemented by Iran as planned," the IAEA's director general told a quarterly meeting of its 35-nation Board of Governors.