"So it's not hard to understand why there is a very strong concern in the east that they should have strong representation and that there should be a real decentralization of government services to the east, " he said.

CNN: In Benghazi, Libyans vow July 7 vote will go on

"The core issue here is the international community concern of the very strong indications that Iran is developing technology that could be used for military purposes, " said Michael Mann, spokesman for EU foreign policy chief Catherine Ashton, the formal convener of the talks.

NPR: Iran Nuke Talks Open, EU Asks Tehran To Compromise

Ms. CONDOLEEZA RICE (U.S. State Department): To the degree that we hear from the Saudis and others that their biggest strategic concern is Iran, then they have a very strong incentive to help stabilize Iraq, so that Iraq is indeed a barrier to Iranian influence in the region, not a bridge.

NPR: Rice Set to Make a Swing Through Middle East