On December 13, 2017, the six countries on the Iranian nuclear issue (five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany) and Iran held the 10th Joint Committee meeting of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian Nuclear Issue in Vienna, Austria. Secretary General for the European External Action Service Helga Schmid chaired the meeting. Under Secretary of State Thomas Shannon of the US, Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi of Iran and officials of Russia, the UK, France and Germany attended the meeting. Director General of the Department of Arms Control of the Foreign Ministry Wang Qun led a delegation to attend the meeting.

Wang Qun addressed that China offers firm support to the JCPOA. The implementation of the JCPOA should be ensured to stay the course. It is of great importance to safeguarding international non-proliferation regime and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, which conforms to the common interests of the international community. The JCPOA is at a crossroads at present. The six countries and Iran should make joint efforts, honor their commitments, and continue safeguarding the integrity and seriousness of the JCPOA. At the same time, differences should be properly managed and handled through the implementation of the JCPOA and the gradual establishment of mutual trust. Wang Qun notified the modification progress of the Arak heavy-water reactor and addressed that China will continue propelling the modification project for greater development on the basis of the JCPOA and the consensus reached by all parties. Wang Qun also announced that China will donate 1.5 million RMB to the supervision and inspection of Iran’s program conducted by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), stressing that it embodies China’s political support to the JCPOA.

All parties spoke highly of remarkable outcomes achieved in the modification project of the Arak heavy-water reactor promoted by China and expressed appreciation for China’s donation to the IAEA. All parties had sincere and in-depth exchanges on sanction, disarmament, nuclear measures and other issues. The US briefed on its latest situation of internal deliberation on policy toward Iran. The other parties all reiterated that they support the JCPOA and stand ready to continue safeguarding and implementing the JCPOA. All parties also agreed through consultation to hold the 11th Joint Committee meeting in March next year.