China yesterday called for the continuation of diplomatic
efforts to tackle the Iranian nuclear issue, stressing that there
is still the possibility of settlement within the framework of the
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
"China believes that continuing diplomatic efforts remains a
wise option," Zhang Yan, director of the Foreign Ministry's
Department of Arms Control, told IAEA board members in Vienna
yesterday.
"China appreciates and supports the diplomatic efforts of all
parties concerned and calls on the international community to
exercise patience and restraint to allow these efforts to bear
fruit," he said.
To create a more favorable atmosphere for diplomacy, parties
should not take any steps to exacerbate the already tense
situation, he added.
He asked Iran to observe all obligations under the nuclear
Non-Proliferation Treaty and, in particular, to implement the
relevant resolutions of the IAEA board.
In terms of uranium enrichment-related activities, Iran should
cooperate fully with the IAEA, increase transparency, and take
confidence-building measures so as to create the conditions
necessary for resolving the issue within the IAEA framework, he
said.
By the same token, China urged that all parties exercise
flexibility and work toward a solution that ensures both
non-proliferation and Iran's rights to the peaceful use of nuclear
energy.
In this regard, China believes that Russia's proposal to move
the uranium enrichment processes to Russia is worth
considering.
"The issue is at a critical juncture," Zhang said. There exist
both a risk of deterioration and chances for improvement.
"The key is whether parties choose dialogue over confrontation,"
he noted.
Zhang said China has taken note that the IAEA has not reported
any diversion of Iran's declared nuclear materials to nuclear
weapons or other nuclear explosive devices. "We have also taken
note that the inspection is ongoing and there are certain pending
issues."
He said China supports continued IAEA inspections and asks Iran
to cooperate more actively.
The IAEA board made a decision to report Iran's case to the UN
Security Council on February 4. This week's board meeting is
considered a crucial next-step.
The 35 members of the board are divided on the issue. The US and
the EU3 -- the UK, France and Germany -- insist that the UNSC
should now take up the issue. Other countries, especially those
from the Non-Aligned Movement, argue that the issue should be kept
within the IAEA.
(Xinhua News Agency March 9, 2006)