China reaffirmed on Tuesday that dialogue and consultation were the best method of resolving the Iran nuclear issue and should not be abandoned lightly.

"There is still room for diplomatic moves," said Foreign Ministry spokesman Qin Gang at a regular press conference.

He said China had always advocated resolving the issue through peaceful means, which was in the interests of all parties.

"China has played a responsible role on the Iran nuclear issue and will continue to keep in touch with all sides for the resolution of the issue," he said.

In response to a question on China's crude oil imports from Iran, Qin said it was for Chinese oil companies and Iran to decide how much and when crude oil would be imported.