Russia calls for diplomatic solution to resolve Iran nuclear issue

UNITED NATIONS, March 2 (Xinhua) -- Russia said here Tuesday that it is necessary to seek a diplomatic solution to resolve the Iran nuclear issue, and the key is to solve the problem peacefully.

Russian UN Ambassador Vitaly Churkin made the statement at a press conference when the United States is pushing for new UN sanctions against Iran for fear that the Middle East country is developing nuclear weapons. But Iran insists that its nuclear program is for peaceful purpose.

"It's necessary to seek diplomatic solution and possibility for negotiations with Iran," Churkin said. "It would be better for Iran to formulate its position to enable to negotiate position."

This will help bring about a productive dialogue on the issue, Churkin said.

"I see no reason why the six can't work effectively and hammer out dealings with Iran," Churkin said of the role of the five permanent members of the UN Security Council -- Britain, France, China, Russia and the United States -- plus Germany (P5+1).

"The key thing is to have this matter resolved peacefully," Churkin said.