UNITED NATIONS — State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi called on all relevant parties to enhance their sense of urgency and make all-out efforts to push for a political and diplomatic settlement of the Iran nuclear issue.

Wang made the appeal during a meeting with foreign affairs officials from the European Union (EU), Iran, Russia, France, Germany and Britain on the sidelines of the United Nations (UN) General Assembly high-level week.

He said the US maximum-pressure approach on Iran has prompted the current crisis in the region, and if it goes unchecked there could be an even bigger crisis.

In order to properly solve the crisis, Wang said relevant parties should uphold the fundamental principles of multilateralism.

The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), endorsed by the UN Security Council, is an important outcome of multilateral diplomacy, said Wang.

He said safeguarding the JCPOA, commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, is to uphold multilateralism, the authority of UN Security Council, and the international order based on international law.

All parties should never waver in their determination in face of whatever challenges and difficulties, he added.

Wang said all parties should continue to honor the commitments under the JCPOA.

Ensuring a balance between rights and obligations prescribed in the JCPOA concerns the basic principle of equity and justice, Wang said.

Wang said Iran should resume implementing the deal, while other parties should make every effort to safeguard Iran's legitimate economic benefits.

China will continue its legitimate cooperation with Iran in such areas as economy, trade and energy, push ahead with the Arak heavy water reactor renovation project, and support EU-initiated payment system to facilitate trade with Iran, said Wang.

He called on relevant parties to stick to the right approach of resolving differences through consultation.

China stands for a solution based on the principle of gradual progress, equality and mutual benefit, said Wang.

Problems related to the implementation of the deal should be solved via the mechanism of the JCPOA Joint Commission, Wang said, adding that China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions imposed by the United States on Iran.

Wang said promoting regional peace is the basic direction.

China supports the efforts made by countries in the Gulf region in ceasing hostilities and engaging in dialogues, he said.

He called on countries outside the region to inject "positive energy" into restoring peace and tranquillity in the region, rather than inciting confrontation.

Wang warned that unilateralism and bullying only escalate tensions surrounding the Iran nuclear issue.

Relevant parties should build up confidence, stay united and uphold multilateralism in order to find a solution, he said.

Wang's remarks were echoed by ministers present at the meeting, who emphasized the importance and urgency of full, effective implementation of the deal.

A joint statement was released after the meeting, confirming their determination to continue all efforts to preserve the agreement, as it is in the interests of all.