Beijing: China on March 13 stuck to its stand that a second resolution on Iraq is "unnecessary" and that weapons inspections must continue under the first resolution 1441, so as to find a political solution to the vexed issue of disarming Baghdad.

"We have taken note of the contents of the British proposals. We believe that the top priority right now is to continue and enhance the inspections in Iraq and earnestly implement the resolution of the United Nations Security Council resolution 1441," Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Kong Quan said.

"The UNSC resolution 1441 was passed unanimously by all members of the Council. The imperative is to implement the resolution. There is no need for a new resolution," he added.

Kong said China has always stressed that Iraq must not possess weapons of mass destruction, but stressed that China has also called for a political solution to the issue.

He said the UN weapons inspectors have conducted "effective and progressive" inspections in Iraq.

"It is still necessary to continue these inspections. We believe that the UNSC resolution 1441 must be implemented, the weapons inspection strengthened and the Iraqi side should also co-operate so as to sort out the problems," he added.

Asked on US plans to attack Iraq, Kong said China has always held that state-to- state relations should be handled in accordance with the charter of the United Nations.

He said members of the United Nations should resolve problems in their relations according to the UN charter.

"China has always wished to establish a concept of mutual benefit and mutual trust so as to create a new environment which is safe and stable," he added.

PTI