President,

Ten years ago, the Security Council adopted Resolution 2231, endorsing the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). This was an important contribution to safeguarding the international non-proliferation regime and to maintaining regional and international peace and security. It was the outcome of diplomatic efforts and a victory for multilateralism, broadly welcomed and supported by the international community.

Over the past decade, the Iranian nuclear issue has experienced many twists and turns, with crises arising repeatedly. The United States unilateral withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018, its re-imposition of unilateral sanctions against Iran, and its policy of “maximum pressure” are the main cause for the current difficulties and challenges. A few months ago, the United States and Israel carried out a reckless military strike against Iranian nuclear facilities, plunging the issue into a deeper crisis.

Today, ten years later, the Iranian nuclear issue once again stands at a critical juncture. The E3 insist on triggering “snapback” mechanism, while Iran has stated that once sanctions are reinstated, it will take countermeasures. The situation is on the brink of collapse. At the same time, Iran has recently reached an agreement with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to restore cooperation, has demonstrated sincerity in engaging with the E3, and has been repeatedly signaling its willingness to resume talks with the United States. It is therefore fair to say that diplomatic efforts have not yet been exhausted, and there still remains hope for a peaceful resolution.

Against this backdrop, China and Russia have tabled this draft resolution, which would technically extend UNSCR 2231 for six months. It encourages Iran to continue its engagement with the IAEA and urges the initial JCPOA participants to immediately resume negotiations. The purpose is to gain time and create conditions for a political settlement. China calls on all members of the Council to vote in favor of the draft resolution — to choose technical extension over “snapback”, dialogue and negotiations over division and confrontation, and deescalation over further tensions. Let us work together to bring the Iranian nuclear issue back to the right track of political and diplomatic settlement.

Thank you, President.