2010-04-01 20:25

BEIJING - China reiterated on Thursday it will continue to work for a peaceful solution to the Iran nuclear issue, as it confirmed Iran's top nuclear negotiator, Saeed Jalili, is on a visit to China.

"China will continue to seek a diplomatic settlement to the Iranian nuclear issue through constructive efforts," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang at a regular news briefing.

Qin's remarks came as reports said six world powers - China, Russia, the United States, Britain, France and Germany - have discussed putting new sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program.

But Qin gave no indication about sanctions but said the six countries held a conference call on Wednesday evening and that "all parties agreed to continue to maintain contact through various channels".

The United States and its western allies have long accused Iran of secretly developing nuclear weapons under the guise of a civilian program, and are discussing a United Nations resolution to impose sanctions.

Iran has denied the accusation and stressed its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.

China maintains there is still room for diplomatic efforts on the nuclear issue, and has resisted new sanctions.

"China expresses its serious concern about the Iranian nuclear issue situation and is in close contact with relevant parties and is striving for a proper settlement of the issue through diplomatic means," said Qin.

Qin also said China maintains that the international nuclear non-proliferation regime be safeguarded and in the meantime regional peace and stability should be taken into account.

Qin said Jalili will meet with Chinese State Councilor Dai Bingguo and Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi during his visit.