China calls for end to military operations in Iran and urges dialogue for stability

Beijing (Xinhua) — Regarding the situation in Iran, a Chinese spokesperson said on Wednesday (4 March) that Beijing called for an immediate halt to military operations to prevent further escalation and to resume dialogue and negotiations to uphold peace and stability in the Middle East. For this purpose, China will continue to fulfil its role as a major country with responsibility, said Lou Qinjian, spokesperson for the fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC), at a press briefing held a day before the session opened. The spokesperson said China is monitoring developments closely, adding that Iran’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity must be respected. China consistently believes that mutual respect and equality among all countries, big and small, are prerequisites for historical progress and a primary principle of the United Nations Charter, Lou noted. No country has the right to dominate international affairs, dictate the fate of other states, or monopolise the advantages of development, let alone impose its will on the world, he asserted, quoted by Xinhua. Translator: Xinhua