Chinese State Councilor Tang Jiaxuan said China is willing to play a "constructive role" in the Iranian nuclear talks when meeting with the Iranian chief nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili.

Tang said China has always advocated a peaceful solution to the issue through dialogue. "The international community should beef up diplomatic efforts to facilitate the resumption of negotiations and achieve a comprehensive settlement of the issue."

Jalili said as a party signed up to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty, Iran is willing to fulfill its commitment and is entitled to the rights of peaceful use of nuclear energy.

"Iran insists on resolving the issue through negotiations and will continue cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA)," said Jalili.

The two sides also exchanged views on bilateral ties. Tang said bilateral ties between China and Iran had strengthened in recent years, and China is willing to work with Iran to make greater progress in the friendly and cooperative relations between the two countries.

Jalili said Iranian leaders attached great emphasis to relations with China. He added Iran is ready to continue boosting mutually beneficial cooperation with China in extensive fields.

Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi on Thursday night met with Jalili and urged all concerned parties to resume the Iranian nuclear talks as soon as possible.

(Xinhua News Agency January 19, 2008)