China welcomes Iran, IAEA reaching understanding on resuming safeguards cooperation

BEIJING, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- China welcomes the understanding reached by Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on resuming safeguards cooperation, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said on Wednesday.

"This is a positive step toward de-escalating tensions surrounding the Iranian nuclear issue and rebuilding mutual trust among relevant parties," Lin said at a regular press conference when responding to a relevant query.

Lin noted that the current situation regarding the Iranian nuclear issue remains fragile. He called on all parties to strengthen diplomatic efforts, engage in constructive dialogue, avoid actions that may escalate tensions, and resume negotiations at an early date to reach a fair and lasting solution that accommodates the legitimate concerns of all sides.

Iran and the IAEA signed an agreement on Tuesday to resume cooperation. Iran suspended its cooperation with the IAEA after the Israeli-U.S. strikes on its nuclear facilities and the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientists in June. ■