"The Iranian nuclear issue now stands at a critical moment. We urge all parties concerned to remain sober-minded, patient and restrained, show flexibility and refrain from worsening the situation," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao said.

Diplomatic talks are also in the interests of all parties concerned, Liu acknowledged.

Liu also reiterated that the Chinese government has always disapproved of the use of sanctions or force in international affairs. The Chinese side hopes that the relevant parties would goon taking a constructive attitude and resolve the Iranian nuclear issue peacefully through diplomatic means

Last Wednesday, France and Britain, backed by the United States, proposed a new draft resolution to the UN Security Council demanding Iran suspend all enrichment activities immediately or face possible sanctions.

The draft invokes Chapter Seven of the UN Charter, under which the council can resort to economic or diplomatic sanctions, or even military action, to ensure its decisions are implemented.

After intensive discussions on Monday, the foreign ministers of China, the United States, Russia, Britain, France and Germany failed to reach agreement on the draft UN resolution.