China, UK discuss Iran nuclear issue

Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi met his British counterpart, David Miliband. Both discussed a wide range of issues, including Iran's nuclear program.

The meeting also covered trade, environmental issues, and plans to boost the two countries' strategic dialogue. It came on the second day of Miliband's three-day visit aimed at boosting ties and cooperation with China. In a press briefing following their meeting, Yang said he had expressed China's concern over Iran. Yang reiterated China's opposition to the use of further sanctions to rein in Iran's nuclear program. China is still seeking a diplomatic solution.

Yang said, "Regarding the Iran question, I wish to point out that this issue is the subject of widespread attention in the international community. China has become more concerned about the current situation."

Miliband said, "The minister has said to you as he said to me in the private meeting that there is increasing concern about the Iranian program. The recent report of the IAEA, which was unable to exclude military dimensions to the Iranian program, is obviously of great concern, and the Iranian refusal to engage on the so-called Tehran research reactor proposal, never mind the offer from the P5+1, add to the lack of confidence in the international community about Iranian intentions."

China's Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi (R) meets with Britain's  Foreign Secretary David Miliband (L) at Chinese Foreign Ministry  in Beijing March 16, 2010. REUTERS/Feng Li/Pool