CANBERRA — Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Iranian counterpart Mohammad-Javad Zarif held a phone conversation on Nov 16 over the Iranian nuclear issue.

Noting that the negotiations for a comprehensive agreement on the issue have entered a crucial stage, Wang urged all parties concerned to keep focused on the overall interests, adhere to the existing consensus, meet each other halfway and show flexibility, so as to reach a fair, balanced and comprehensive deal as scheduled.

China is willing to keep close contact with all parties concerned and play a constructive role, Wang added.

Zarif elaborated Iran’s stance on the issue and thanked China for its constant fair stance on the issue, saying that China has been playing an important role in promoting peace and dialogue.

Iran is willing to further expand exchanges with China on the issue, he said.