My delegation associates itself with the P5+1 joint statement.

We take note of the DG's report of February 24 on this subject.

We welcome the two visits to Iran by an agency team since the beginning of this year. We positively evaluate the reception of the visits as a demonstration of Iran's positive stance toward dialog and cooperation with the agency. At the same time we note with concern that the visits failed to yield the expected results.

We encourage and urge Iran to make further constructive efforts to implement the board resolution of last November, and increase its cooperation with the agency in addressing as soon as possible the outstanding issues regarding, particularly possible military dimensions to its nuclear program.

At the same time we encourage the agency to continue its dialog with Iran in an objective and impartial manner with a view to solving the outstanding issues.

My delegation notes with satisfaction that thanks to the joint efforts of the parties concerned the process of dialog and negotiation on the Iranian nuclear issue is showing positive momentum. The P5+1 and Iran have both expressed readiness and begun preparations for serious dialog. This is significant for moving toward a diplomatic solution of the Iranian nuclear issue. We hope to see the P5+1 and Iran start a process of sustained dialog at an early date, build up mutual trust based on the principle of step by step and reciprocity and search for a comprehensive and long-term proper solution to the Iranian nuclear issue.

Together with the other parties China is prepared to continue playing a constructive role in resolving the Iranian nuclear issue in order to preserve the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and maintain peace and stability in the Middle East.