Negotiations and a diplomatic solution are still the best way to end the Iranian nuclear standoff, experts believe.

"The (new) resolution demonstrated the UN resolve to keep the international nuclear non-proliferation mechanism intact by urging Iran to return to the negotiating table." Hua Liming, a former Chinese ambassador to Iran, told China Daily.

The moderately tougher sanctions, already a compromise between relevant parties, are reversible and reflect concerns that anything short of consensus would weaken efforts to rein in Iran's nuclear defiance, said Hua.

"The new resolution has not closed the door to talks. In fact, it still pins much hope on a peaceful end to the long-term crisis," said Shi Yinhong, a professor at the School of International Relations, Renmin University of China.

Now the ball is in Iran's court, experts said. Compliance from Iran would contribute to a diplomatic solution to the stalemate, according to Shi.

The tightening of pressure on Iran would make more and more politicians and other people in Iran weary of the "defiance" and seek a change of position, Hua believes.

(China Daily March 26, 2007)