Mr. Chair,

China has taken note of the report on the implementation of the NPT Safeguards Agreement in Iran submitted by DG Grossi. We welcome the positive developments in the cooperation between Iran and the Agency, and encourage the two sides to further strengthen cooperation and implement the Joint Statement issued by the two sides in March this year and resolve differences at an early date through consultations.

China would like to underscore that it is imperative for the Board to support the Agency and Iran in resolving relevant differences as soon as possible through constructive dialogue and cooperation on the safeguards issue, so as to create favourable conditions and an environment for diplomatic efforts to restore the full and effective implementation of the JCPOA, rather than artificially creating confrontation and increasing contradictions. We call on all parties to play a constructive role to that end and to reject any attempt to politicize the safeguards issues.

Thank you, Mr. Chair.