President,

China deeply regrets that the draft resolution just put to vote was not adopted.

China has always maintained that dialogue, negotiation, and diplomatic means are the only viable options for resolving the Iranian nuclear issue, and that a political settlement is the only correct way to safeguard peace and stability in the Middle East. The situation has arrived at a critical juncture. We call on all parties to remain calm and exercise restraint, continue dialogue and engagement, handle the current impasse prudently, and avoid any further escalation of tensions. I wish to stress the following points:

First, upholding regional peace and stability. History has shown that resorting to force and exerting maximum pressure are not the right approach to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue. Against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the overall tension in the Middle East, a “breakdown” of the Iranian nuclear issue may trigger a new security crisis in the region, which runs counter to the common interests of the international community. We urge the United States to demonstrate political will, respond positively to Iran's proposals for resuming negotiations, and make a clear commitment not to launch military attacks against Iran. We also call on the European parties to engage in genuine diplomatic efforts and abandon the practice of sanctions and coercion against Iran.

Second, resolving disputes through dialogue and negotiations. At its core, the Iranian nuclear issue is a matter of political security, rooted in a lack of mutual trust among the parties concerned. The unconditional return of the initial JCPOA participants would help with a political settlement of the issue. All parties concerned should adhere to the spirit of mutual respect, resume dialogue on the basis of equality, and strive to find the broadest possible consensus that accommodates each other's legitimate concerns. The Security Council should play a constructive role in assisting the parties concerned in rebuilding trust and bridging differences.

Third, upholding the principles and spirit of the JCPOA. Regardless of the future trajectory of the political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, the core objectives and purposes established by the JCPOA and UNSCR 2231 must not be abandoned, and the important principles including committing to a step-by-step and reciprocal approach, and taking a holistic approach to the goals of nuclear non-proliferation and peaceful uses of nuclear energy, are still effective. Iran should continue to honor its commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, while its right to the peaceful uses of nuclear energy as a State party to the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons must be fully respected.

President,

As a participant to the JCPOA, China has been consistently upholding the objectives of non-proliferation, defending the authority, validity, and integrity of the JCPOA, and promoting the faithful implementation of the Agreement by all parties. Following the United States' withdrawal from the JCPOA, and in the face of the current impasse, China has been actively promoting dialogue and engagements among the parties, working through negotiations to resolve differences, and playing a constructive and positive role. I wish to reiterate that China's solemn commitment to maintaining international peace and security will not change, our political will to seek a peaceful settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue will not waver, and our diplomatic efforts to promote dialogue and cooperation among all parties will not diminish. We stand ready to work with all parties in an objective and impartial manner, and make unremitting efforts towards a comprehensive political settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue.

Thank you, President.