Maintaining Mediations Over Iran

Beijing has called for greater diplomatic efforts, including direct talks and negotiations, to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue.

"China hopes the parties concerned demonstrate more flexibility to create conditions conducive to a comprehensive solution to the Iran nuclear issue through diplomatic means," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang said at a February 23 press conference.

While highlighting a recent report by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) on Iran's nuclear programs, Qin said China hopes Tehran strengthens cooperation with the IAEA.

In the confidential report, IAEA officials expressed concerns over possible activity in Iran to develop a nuclear payload for a missile. Some Western countries have proposed a fourth round of UN Security Council sanctions on Iran.

China and Slovakia

China has pledged to collaborate closely with Slovakia in programs concerning renewable energy, infrastructure, medicine and tourism.

Chinese Vice Premier Li Keqiang said that during his talks with visiting Slovak First Deputy Prime Minister Dusan Caplovic in Beijing on February 23.

Deepening economic and trade cooperation is a priority of China-Slovakia relations, Li said, adding that the two countries should strengthen coordination to expand two-way trade and investment.

Fruitful business ties between China and Slovakia would not only benefit the two nations, but also help advance China-EU relations and promote world economic recovery, Li added.