Chinese Foreign Minister Li Zhaoxing discussed with U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice on the phone Saturday on China-U.S. relations and Iran's nuclear issue.

During their phone conversation, the two top diplomats exchanged views over the ways to promote bilateral relations, Iran's disputed nuclear program as well as other issues of common concern.

Iran's nuclear issue has drawn world attention. Tehran refused to suspend uranium enrichment in its Tuesday's response to a package of incentives offered by six major powers.

The United Nations Security Council has demanded Iran halt enrichment activities by Aug. 31, or it will face possible sanctions.

Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad on Saturday inaugurated a heavy water plant, which, according to senior Iranian officials, has the ability to produce up to 16 tons of heavy water a year.

Source: Xinhua