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On the afternoon of February 26, 2008, Foreign Ministry Spokesman Liu Jianchao held a regular press conference and answered questions on the visit of US Secretary of State Rice to China, the Iranian nuclear crisis, the dumplings incident in Japan and etc. He also briefed the press on the talks between Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and US Secretary of State Rice in the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse and their subsequent joint press conference. (Please check the Latest News on the official website of the Foreign Ministry for the whole text of the meeting between Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and Secretary Rice.)

Liu Jianchao: Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Now, the floor is open.

Q: In their discussion over the Iranian nuclear issue, did Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi and US Secretary of State Rice discuss the US proposed new sanction resolution at the Security Council?

A: The two sides exchanged views on the Iranian nuclear issue during the meeting. Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi expounded on China's position and advocated a proper resolution of the issue through diplomatic negotiations. Relevant parties should intensify diplomatic efforts and exert creativity in seeking a long-term and all-round solution. China, the US and other members of the UN Security Council will continue the consultation over the draft UN resolution in a bid to create conditions for the peaceful resolution of the issue and resumption of dialogue between relevant parties.

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