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China urges diplomatic solution to Iranian nuclear issue

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-06-09 23:33

VIENNA - A senior Chinese official said here Wednesday the best way to solve the Iranian nuclear issue was through dialogue.

Chen Qiufa, chairman of the China Atomic Energy Authority and director of the Chinese mission to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), told an IAEA board meeting China noted Iran did not redirect its declared nuclear material for other uses.

However, Iran had failed to implement resolutions of the UN Security Council and the IAEA board, and needed to further enhance cooperation with the IAEA, he said.

"Iran has the right for peaceful use of nuclear energy, but also has to fulfill the corresponding obligation for non-proliferation of nuclear weapons at the same time," Chen said.

Therefore, he said, China called on Tehran to strengthen cooperation with the IAEA and implement the IAEA and Security Council resolutions.

China hoped Iran would "take active measures in implementing the Additional Protocol of the Non-Proliferation Treaty and clarifying outstanding issues, so as to restore the confidence of the international community in the peaceful nature of its nuclear program," the Chinese representative said.

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Regarding an agreement signed recently by Iran, Turkey and Brazil for Iran to ship most of its low-enriched uranium to Turkey in exchange for the 20 percent uranium fuel needed for its reactor, Chen expressed hope the swap deal "could help resolve the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiations."

China would continue efforts to facilitate talks among the concerned parties and help put an end to the issue through negotiations and consultations, he said.

Addressing the nuclear issue on the Korean Peninsula, Chen reiterated China's consistent call for a nuclear-free peninsula and opposition to proliferation of nuclear weapons.

"The six-party talks are an effective way to realize denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula and lasting peace and stability of Northeast Asia," Chen said.

In view of the current "complex and sensitive situation on the Korean Peninsula," Chen said, the relevant parties should "keep calm and restraint," focus on the overall situation and continue to promote the six-party talks process.