HIGHLIGHTS-Obama sees world without nuclear arms

PRAGUE, April 5 (Reuters) - Following are quotes from U.S. President Barack Obama's speech in Prague on Sunday.

ON NUCLEAR WEAPONS

"The United States will take concrete steps towards a world without nuclear weapons. To put an end to Cold War thinking, we will reduce the role of nuclear weapons in our national security strategy and urge others to do the same. Make no mistake, as long as these weapons exist, the United States will maintain a safe, secure and effective arsenal to deter any adversary and guarantee that defence to our allies, including the Czech Republic. We will begin the work of reducing our arsenal. To reduce our warheads and stockpiles we will negotiate a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with the Russians this year."

ON IRAN

"My administration will seek engagement with Iran based upon mutual interests and mutual respect."

"We will lead a dialogue. And in that dialogue we will present a clear choice. We want Iran to take its rightful place in the community of nations, politically and economically."

"We will support Iran's right to peaceful nuclear energy with rigorous inspections. That is a path that the Islamic Republic can take."

"Or the government can choose increased isolation, international pressure, and a potential nuclear arms race in the region that will increase insecurity for all."

"Let me be clear: Iran's nuclear and ballistic missile activity poses a real threat, not just to the United States, but to Iran's neighbors and our allies."

ON MISSILE DEFENSE

"As long as the threat from Iran persists, we will go forward with a missile defense system that is cost-effective and proven."

"If the Iranian threat is eliminated we will have a stronger basis for security. And the driving force for missile defense construction in Europe will be removed."