China, EU reaffirm commitment to Iran nuclear deal

BRUSSELS -- China and the European Union (EU) on Tuesday reaffirmed their commitment to the continued, full and effective implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal.

The reaffirmation came as China and the EU issued a joint statement after their 21st leaders' meeting held here on Tuesday afternoon.

The two sides recalled that the JCPOA is a key element of the global non-proliferation architecture and a significant diplomatic achievement endorsed unanimously by the UN Security Council in its Resolution 2231, the statement said.

The two sides "reaffirm their commitment to its continued, full and effective implementation, as well as their efforts to preserve economic benefits for Iran," it said.

China and the EU recalled the importance of the Arak modernization project, and the need to continue their common efforts in this regard, it said.

Both sides welcomed the fact that the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has confirmed in 14 consecutive reports the continued adherence by Iran to its nuclear-related commitments, it said.

On the situation in Venezuela, the statement said China and the EU are following closely the evolving situation in Venezuela and are willing to work with other parties on a political, peaceful and democratic solution decided by the people of Venezuela.

The statement also said that China, the EU and its member states are parties to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea and respect the maritime order based on international law and uphold freedom of navigation and overflight enjoyed by all states in accordance with international law.

The EU welcomes the ongoing consultations between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) aimed at the conclusion of an effective Code of Conduct (COC) for the South China Sea.

China and the EU call upon all relevant parties to engage in dialogue, to settle disputes peacefully, and to refrain from actions likely to increase tensions, the statement said.