Q: How does China comment on the recent tension in Iran and the Gulf region?

A: Some western countries have recently stepped up their unilateral sanctions against Iran, exacerbating confrontation and causing increasing tension in the Gulf region. We are concerned that the situation is not conducive to the settlement of the Iranian issue. We always hold that differences between countries should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation. Willfully imposing sanctions, exerting pressure, or even threatening with force does not help resolve the issue, but will only make the situation worse. We hope all relevant parties stay calm, level-headed and exercise restraint in a joint effort to safeguard peace and stability in the Gulf region.

Q: Premier Wen Jiabao said in Doha yesterday that China opposes Iran producing and possessing nuclear weapons. Is China concerned that Iran is in fact developing nuclear weapons?

A: China's position on the Iranian nuclear issue is consistent. We firmly endorse upholding the international nuclear non-proliferation regime, support establishing a Middle East nuclear-free zone, and hope Iran enhances dialogue and negotiation with the P5+1 and the IAEA to address outside concerns. We hold that the fundamental solution to the Iranian nuclear issue is dialogue, consultation and cooperation. Willfully imposing sanctions, exerting pressure or even threatening with force does not help solve the issue, but will only complicate it.

Q: Iranian Foreign Minister said Iran reserved the right to close the Strait of Hormuz. How do you comment?

A: The importance of the Strait of Hormuz is self-evident. China hopes to see peace and stability in the region, which serves the common interests of all countries.

Q: The IMF expressed the hope of increasing its resources by US$600 billion. Has China received any request from the IMF and are you willing to contribute?

A: On the issue of increasing IMF resources, I suggest you refer to competent authorities. In principle, we hold that the parties should implement the consensus reached by heads of state at the G20 Cannes Summit in a joint effort to ensure adequate IMF resources to cope with the current international financial crisis. At the same time, we hope all parties speed up domestic approval procedures so as to complete the quota reform on time and fundamentally guarantee the funding resources of the IMF.