China reiterated yesterday that it prefers negotiations to sanctions in tackling 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 Russia media, which was posted on the official website of the ministry.

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

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

Li said China shares with most member states in the international community the common objective on the Iranian nuclear issue.

China, which opposes nuclear proliferation and hopes for no newturbulence in the Middle East, maintains that the Iranian nuclearissue can be properly handled through diplomatic means and negotiation, Li said.

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

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

Top foreign ministry officials of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and Germany met in New York on Monday to plot long-term strategy on how to tackle the Iranian nuclear crisis.

Li called for all parties concerned to show restraint and patience, and avoid any move that may complicate the situation.

"China is keeping close contact with parties concerned and playing a constructive role in settling the nuclear issue through diplomatic means," Li said.

When taking actions on the Iranian nuclear issue, the international community should take into consideration whether theaction is conducive to settling the issue in the long run and maintaining the regional peace and stability, Li said, urging all parties to make utmost efforts.