Peres: China key to Iranian nuclear talks

JERUSALEM, April 23 (UPI) -- Israeli President Shimon Peres said Thursday China is a vital part of international efforts to limit Iran's controversial nuclear program.

Speaking with visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Yang Jiechi in Jerusalem, Peres said China plays an integral role in diplomatic efforts to stop Iran from developing nuclear capabilities, the Israeli newspaper Haaretz reported.

"China has a central role in the struggle against Iran's nuclear development. At the head of the Iranian state stands (a) fanatical religious leader who supports terror, war and blood shedding," Peres told Yang.

"The efforts of Iran, a poor nation, to develop long-range missiles should cause every responsible leader to lose sleep."

Haaretz said the two politicians also discussed the ongoing peace process in the Middle East during their meeting at Peres's official residence, as well as increased cooperation between China and Israel.