"Such talks would help UN arms inspectors return to work in Iraq at an early date, which is the most urgent matter now," Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said at a regular press briefing.

The talks have also created favourable conditions for the political and peaceful settlement of the Iraq issue, he said.

Kong said Iraq's decision to allow the unconditional return of UN arms inspectors is a positive sign for its resumption of co-operation with the UN.

Officials with the United Nations Monitoring, Verification and Inspection Commission met top Iraqi arms experts on Tuesday to discuss practical arrangements for the return of UN inspectors after nearly four years.

China has always held that the Iraq issue should be resolved peacefully through political and diplomatic channels on the basis of relevant UN Security Council resolutions.

Kong said an objective and independent report by the UN arms inspectors will lead the situation towards political settlement.

"China hopes the next round of talks between the two sides can achieve expected results," Kong said.

(China Daily September 20, 2002)