China welcomes Iran's decision to cooperate with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Chinese Assistant Foreign Minister Lu Guozeng said in Beijing Wednesday in a meeting with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gulam Ali Khoshroo.

The two sides discussed the issue of Iran's implementation of the additional protocol to the safeguard agreement with IAEA and other regional issues.

Khoshroo said Iran would strengthen its cooperation with IAEA, sign and ratify the additional protocol and halt its uranium enrichment program.

Iran also hoped to preserve its right to nuclear programs for peaceful uses, said Khoshroo.

Lu Guozeng explained China's stance and principles on Iran's nuclear program. China welcomed and appreciated Iran's decision to cooperate with the IAEA and hoped Iran would carry out its promise as soon as possible in order to solve the issue within the framework of the IAEA.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Middle East situation and the Iraq and Afghanistan issues.

(Xinhua News Agency October 23, 2003)