AFP: The U.S. and Iran have announced talks over the nature of Iran’s nuclear program. I’m wondering if the Chinese side has any response to that development?

Lin Jian: We noted relevant reports. China all along believes that the only right choice for settling the issue is through political and diplomatic means.

Against the current backdrop, it’s all the more important for parties to the Iranian nuclear issue to work in the same direction, strengthen dialogue and engagement, and avoid any escalation. As the country which unilaterally withdrew from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action and caused the current situation, the U.S. needs to show political sincerity, act in the spirit of mutual respect, engage in dialogue and consultation, and stop the threat of force and maximum pressure.

China will continue to maintain communication with relevant parties, actively promote talks for peace, and help relevant parties reach as early as possible a diplomatic settlement to the Iranian nuclear issue that accommodates all parties’ legitimate concerns so as to uphold the international non-proliferation regime and keep the Middle East peaceful and stable.