BEIJING - China welcomed an agreement to begin implementation of the Geneva deal on Iran's nuclear program on January 20, a Chinese spokeswoman said on Monday.

In November, Iran and the P5+1 group, which includes the United States, Britain, France, Russia, China and Germany, reached an interim agreement whereby Iran would freeze part of its nuclear program in exchange for limited ease of sanctions, which have hurt its economy.

Spokeswoman Hua Chunying said China appreciates the diplomatic efforts of Iran and the P5+1 group and it hopes all sides will make joint efforts to ensure a thorough implementation of the deal.

China expects all sides to continue consultations on an equal footing and reach a comprehensive deal at an early date, she added.

China has always advocated seeking a solution for safeguarding the international non-proliferation regime as well as peace and stability in the Middle East through dialogue and negotiation, she said, noting that China has actively participated in relevant consultations and negotiations, helped accommodate all sides' concerns, properly handled differences and made efforts for the progress of the dialogue.

Hua said China is willing to maintain close communication and coordination with all sides to promote peace and negotiation.