China hopes various parties will continue to step up diplomatic efforts and actively seek effective ways to resolve the Iranian nuclear issue through dialogue and negotiations, Chinese President Hu Jintao said in Washington Monday.

During a meeting with his U.S. counterpart Barack Obama, Hu also said China and the United States share the same overall goal on the Iranian nuclear issue.

Hu said China stands ready to maintain consultation and coordination with the United States and other parties within the 5-plus-1 mechanism, which includes the permanent UN Security Council members Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States and Germany, and in the United Nations and through other channels.

Hu stated China's principled position on the Iranian nuclear issue, saying China is always committed to upholding the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and peace and stability in the Middle East.