Cooperation between CNOOC and Iran

Liu said that China National Offshore Oil Corp (CNOOC)'s deal with Iran to develop the country's North Pars gas field is a business act between enterprises.

His comments came after Iran's oil ministry said Wednesday that it would sign a contract with CNOOC to develop Iran's North Pars gas field, adding that normal trade and economic cooperation between Iran and other relevant countries should not be undermined.

On Iran's nuclear issue, Liu said, "China holds that the current existing nuclear proliferation mechanism should be maintained and every country has the right to develop nuclear technology peacefully."

"We hope that Iran can actively respond to the requests and concerns of the international community and create favourable conditions for the resumption of talks," he said.

He said relevant UN Security Council resolutions and actions should be conducive to the resolution of the Iran nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiation.

Darfur issue

The international community has a common responsibility to push the peace process in Darfur, said Liu.

Liu said that Liu Guijin, the Chinese government's special representative for Darfur, had just made a fruitful visit to Sudan.

During his visit from February 24 to 27, Liu conferred with leaders and officials from the Sudanese government, and officials from Darfur region. Liu visited Britain from February 21 to 23.

Both Britain and Sudan had applauded China's positive role in the Darfur issue and hoped that China would play a more important role, Liu said.

The resolution of the developing and complicated issue should not only depend on China's efforts, Liu said.

The international community had a responsibility to push the peace process.

Liu said the international community should make efforts to persuade the concerned sides in the region to join the peace process.