On January 31, Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing, who was attending the International Meeting on Afghan Development in London, respectively met with Iranian Foreign Minister Manuchehr Mottaki and UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.

In meeting with Mottaki, Li Zhaoxing said that he is concerned of the development of Iranian nuclear situation. The legitimate right of Iran to peacefully utilize the nuclear energy should be respected. Iran should also undertake its due obligations. We advocate solving the Iranian nuclear issue within the framework of the International Atomic Energy Agency. We hope that Iran and the European Union may find a long-term solution through diplomatic negotiations. The related sides should make greater efforts along the path of negotiation.

Mottaki said that it is conducive for the Iranian and Chinese sides to maintain consultations on this issue. Iran has no intention to possess nuclear weapons, but Iran has rights to master nuclear technologies. Now the nuclear issue becomes more sensitive. The Iranian side opposes to submit this issue to the UN Security Council. Iran is willing to eliminate the doubt about Iranian nuclear actions through negotiation and find a comprehensive solution.

In meeting with Annan, both sides exchanged views over issue related to Afghanistan, Iran, Middle East, Darfur and the reform of the UN. Li Zhaoxing expounded the position of Chinese side and supported the UN to continue to play its positive role on above-mentioned issues.

Annan expressed his appreciation to China for its positive contribution to resolving the important international and regional issues and hoped that both sides may strengthen consultations.