Russia's top diplomat has urged Iran to fulfill its obligations under its nuclear deal with world powers while calling on Europe to offer relief from US sanctions.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Tuesday that US sanctions have effectively prevented Iran from selling the excess uranium it produces, contributing to its stockpiling.
Follow Israel Hayom on Facebook and Twitter
He called on Tehran to "show restraint, not yield to emotions" and observe provisions of the deal.
Iran acknowledged Monday it had exceeded the limit set on its low-enriched uranium stockpiles by the 2015 nuclear deal, its first major breach of the agreement a year after the US's unilateral withdrawal.
Lavrov also urged the European Union to make good on its pledge and finally implement a working system protecting its trade with Iran from American sanctions.
China has expressed regret over Iran's move to break limits on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium, but said Washington's pressure campaign is the root cause of tensions.
Foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang told reporters Tuesday that Beijing remains committed to the 2015 agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. He said all parties should exercise restraint and safeguard the agreement to "avoid escalating tensions."
