China, Iran exchange in-depth views on latest progress of Iranian nuclear issue

BEIJING, April 23 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday, with the two sides exchanging in-depth views on the latest progress of the Iranian nuclear issue.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasized that China has always been committed to a political and diplomatic resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue, and opposes the abuse of force and illegal unilateral sanctions.

China appreciates Iran's commitment to not developing nuclear weapons, respects Iran's right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy, supports Iran in conducting dialogue with all parties -- including the United States -- and in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests through consultation and negotiation, Wang said, adding that it will help safeguard the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and promote regional peace and stability.

Araghchi praised China's important, positive role in promoting the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, and expressed willingness to maintain close communication and coordination with China.