Chinese Ambassador to the UN Wang Guangya reiterated on Tuesday that the UN Security Council should support the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in dealing with the Iranian nuclear issue.

 

"There are still no substantial progress," Wang told Xinhua, referring to the recent effort made by the members of the UN Security Council.

 

"Basically we all believe the task of the council is to maintain the authority of the IAEA," he said. "However, members are divided on what role the council should play."

 

"We need to send a message that the Security Council is reinforcing the role of the IAEA, not to replace or take it over from the IAEA," he stressed.

 

Wang reiterated that China prefers diplomacy to solve the Iranian nuclear issue instead of pressure or even sanctions against Iran.

 

"The situation of the region which Iran belongs to is very sensitive," he said. "The council should take every precaution when taking actions."

 

Wang added that the decision of the council should be helpful to the peace and stability of the region, as well as the diplomatic negotiation.

 

Meanwhile, the Security Council on Tuesday postponed a scheduled meeting on the Iranian nuclear crisis to a later date in order to allow France and Britain to make modifications to their latest version of their draft statement.

 

(Xinhua News Agency March 22, 2006)