VIENNA, Feb. 2 (Xinhuanet) -- China hopes Iran to resume suspension of nuclear research and development activities and resume talks with the European Union (EU) as soon as possible, chief of Chinese delegation Wu Hailong said here on Thursday.

    "The Chinese side hopes that Iran will resume suspension of its nuclear fuel R&D activities and resume negotiations with the European side as soon as possible," Wu addressed the extraordinary meeting of the Board of Governors of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).

    To begin with, Wu said the IAEA's update brief points out that Iran has continued to facilitate IAEA safeguards and verification activities and provide access to relevant information according to its Safeguards Agreement and the Additional Protocol.

    "The Chinese side encourages Iran to continue its full cooperation with the Agency (IAEA) so as to increase confidence of the international community in its peaceful nuclear activities," he said.

    WU called for an early and proper resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue through negotiation and by diplomatic means.

    "Although the process of negotiation has encountered some difficulties, the relevant parties must not give up their diplomatic efforts. So long as there is hope, no matter how slim it might be, we have to work with redoubled or even quadrupled efforts," he said.

    He said the Chinese side believes that there is still room for resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue within the framework of the IAEA.

    "We also hope that other relevant parties will maintain calm, restraint and patience, demonstrate flexibility and avoid escalation so as to create necessary atmosphere and condition for resumption of negotiation between E3 and Iran," he said.

    "The Chinese side will maintain close communication and coordination with all parties in a joint effort for an early and proper resolution of the issues," he added. Enditem