Mr. Chairman,

China has all along stood for an early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiation and by diplomatic means. And it will continue to do so in the future.

At present, there is, we believe, still room for resolving the Iranian nuclear issue within the framework of the IAEA. The relevant provisions pertaining to "reporting to the UN Security Council" contained in the just-adopted Resolution (GOV/2006/12.Rev.1), as we understand it, shall not be construed as an exercise based on Article 12C or Article 3B of the Statute of the Agency. On the contrary, the very purpose underlined of this exercise is to enable the Agency to better address the Iranian nuclear issue. It is with this understanding that the Chinese Delegation voted for the above draft resolution. We hope that result of deliberations at this special session will facilitate attainment of the above objective, conducive to mitigating current difficulties in the negotiation process. We also hope that it will help all relevant parties channel their efforts towards a consensus on the resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue

Although there are some difficulties in the course of negotiation, the relevant parties should spare no diplomatic efforts by seizing any possible opportunity to resolve the issue.

In this context, the Chinese side calls on all relevant parties to exercise restraint and patience at this very moment and refrain from taking any action that might further complicate or deteriorate the situation. Meanwhile, they should also size up the situation and demonstrate maximum flexibility with the object of bringing about an early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue through continued negotiation. This, we believe, represents the most sensible and most ideal formula in the best interests of all parties.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.