China calls for dialogue, negotiation to solve Iran nuclear issue
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China Wednesday renewed its call for dialogue and negotiation to solve the Iranian nuclear issue as the European Union and Iran prepare for talks.
"On the Iranian nuclear issue, the parties concerned should bear in mind the larger picture and long-term interests. They should increase diplomatic efforts and remain patient," Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi said at a forum in Beijing.
Yang urged all parties concerned to adopt a flexible, pragmatic and proactive approach to achieve a "a comprehensive, long-term and appropriate solution."
Yang's comment come as the EU and Iran ready themselves for talks in Geneva on Dec. 6 and 7. The talks will be the first high-level discussion between the two sides since October 2009.
EU foreign affairs chief Catherine Ashton is scheduled to meet with Iranian negotiator Saeed Jalili to solve Iran's nuclear issue, a spokesman for Ashton said in Brussels Tuesday.
The EU hopes all issues will be on the table, including Tehran's disputed nuclear program.
The Iranian president has repeatedly said its nuclear program is not up for negotiation because it is for peaceful purpose.
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