China stressed again yesterday that it prefers discussions to sanctions in attempting to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue.

"Negotiations are more effective than sanctions as far as the Iranian nuclear issue is concerned," Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing said in a written interview with Russian news media that was posted on the Foreign Ministry's Website.

When asked to comment on Russia's role in the negotiations, including its proposal that allows for Iranian uranium enrichment within Russian territory, Li said China supports all efforts to resolve the issue through negotiations.

"Under the current situation, Russia's suggestion is a good attempt to break the stalemate," Li said, adding that China hopes the Iranian-Russian negotiation will make progress at an early date.

Li said China shares a common objective with most members of the international community.

China, which opposes nuclear proliferation and hopes no new turbulence will occur in the Middle East, maintains that the Iranian nuclear issue can be handled properly through diplomatic means, Li said.

"There is still room for diplomatic mediation; thus all parties concerned should step up efforts," Li said.

The foreign minister said China hopes Iran will cooperate more with the International Atomic Energy Agency and take measures to enhance mutual trust, which will help create conditions for an early settlement of the nuclear issue.