China for diplomatic solution to Iran N-issue

China on Thursday said that there was still room for solving the Iranian nuclear standoff via diplomatic negotiations and expressed hope that the UNSC presidential statement will help enhance the authority and role of the International Atomic Energy Agency in finding a settlement.

"Under present situation, there still exists a room to solve the Iranian nuclear standoff via diplomatic negotiations and the international community should not give up efforts," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said.

He noted that the statement, adopted unanimously by the UNSC, calls on Iran to resume suspension of all uranium enrichment-related activities within 30 days.

He urged all parties concerned to keep restraint and be patient, saying China takes an open attitude toward any suggestion or efforts conducive to the settlement of the nuclear issue.

China and Russia, both permanent members of the UNSC, reportedly succeeded in diluting a tough presidential statement on Iran, which the US had wanted.