国内英语新闻:Lift of UN arms embargo on Iran reflects common stance of international community: spokesper

BEIJING, Oct. 19 (Xinhua) -- The end of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) arms embargo and travel restrictions against Iran embodies the common position of the international community, according to a Foreign Ministry spokesperson Monday.

China stands ready to work with all parties to promote the advancement of the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iran nuclear issue, spokesperson Zhao Lijian told a regular press briefing in Beijing.

Zhao made the remarks when answering a reporter's question on the termination of travel and arms restrictions imposed upon Iran as contained in UN Security Council Resolution 2231 starting Sunday.

"Under the provisions of UN Security Council Resolution 2231, the arms embargo and travel restrictions against Iran expired on Sunday," said Zhao, noting it marks the completion of the first phase of the implementation of Resolution 2231.

"This is an important moment in the implementation process of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on the Iranian nuclear issue and Resolution 2231," Zhao said.

He added it reflects the common position of the international community to uphold multilateralism and the authority of the UN Security Council, and to safeguard the existing achievements on the Iranian nuclear issue and the effectiveness of the JCPOA.

He told the press that China stands ready to work with all parties to continue to maintain the steady follow-up implementation of the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, move forward the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, and safeguard the international nuclear non-proliferation system and peace and stability in the Middle East and Gulf region.

Zhao said Security Council Resolution 2231 has clear stipulation of lifting arms embargo and other restrictive measures against Iran, which should be implemented accurately.

"China will continue to handle arms trade in a prudent manner in accordance with its policy on export of military articles and its international obligations," he added.