Mr. Chairman,

First of all, the Chinese Delegation wishes to thank the Secretariat of the Agency for its update brief on developments in the implementation of NPT Safeguards Agreement in Iran on 31 January.

The Chinese side is very much concerned about the developments in relation to the Iranian nuclear issue and is deeply worried by Iran's recent resumption of nuclear fuel R&D. At the same time, we note that the Agency's update brief shows that Iran has continued to facilitate IAEA safeguards and verification activities and provide access to relevant information according to its Safeguards Agreement and the Additional Protocol. The Chinese side encourages Iran to continue its full cooperation with the Agency so as to increase confidence of the international community in its peaceful nuclear activities.

China always supports the efforts to safeguard the international non-proliferation regime and opposes the proliferation in any form of nuclear weapons. It is our view that the right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy by NPT States Parties should be respected whereas their treaty obligations be observed. We stand for an early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiation and by diplomatic means. Although there are some difficulties in the course of negotiation, the parties concerned should not give up diplomatic efforts. So long as there is hope, no matter how slim it might be, we have to make maximum efforts. From a long-term perspective, a diplomatic solution not only is in the interest of all parties but also contributes to global and regional peace and stability.

The Chinese side believes that there is now still room for a resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue within the framework of the Agency. It is our hope that deliberations at the this special session will serve to help all relevant parties have a fuller exchange of views, clarify relevant outstanding issues, enhance their mutual understanding and seek consensus with a view to bringing the Iranian nuclear issue back to the track of dialogue and negotiation.

To this end, the Chinese side hopes that Iran will resume suspension of nuclear fuel R&D activities and resume negotiations with the European side as soon as possible. Meanwhile, we also hope that other relevant parties will maintain calm, exercise restraint and patience, demonstrate flexibility and avoid escalation so as to create necessary climate and condition for resumption of negotiation between E3 and Iran.

The Chinese side will maintain close communication and coordination with all other parties in a joint effort to bring about an early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue.

Thank you, Mr. Chairman.