China expresses support for Iran ahead of Trump's visit to Beijing
Istanbul (ANTARA) - China on Wednesday (6/5) expressed support for Iran amid its conflict with the United States, as Beijing prepares to welcome the visit of US President Donald Trump next week.
“China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and appreciates Iran’s willingness to seek political solutions through diplomatic channels,” Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during a meeting in Beijing.
Wang added that a complete cessation of hostilities is extremely important, while resuming conflict is unacceptable, and continuing negotiations is crucial, according to a statement from China’s Foreign Ministry.
Araghchi arrived in Beijing at China’s invitation for their first face-to-face talks since the US and Israel initiated war with Iran on 28 February.
Trump is scheduled to visit China on 14-15 May, according to the White House, while China’s Foreign Ministry on Wednesday stated that it continues to communicate with Washington regarding the state visit, which was previously delayed due to the war with Iran.
The meeting in Beijing is taking place amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently effectively blockaded by both US and Iranian military forces, and has impacted global energy supplies.
“Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the international community shares common concerns about restoring normal and safe shipping lanes, and China hopes that the involved parties will promptly respond to the strong calls from the international community,” Wang told Araghchi.
Furthermore, Wang praised Iran’s commitment not to develop nuclear weapons and stated that China recognises Iran’s legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy.
Trump insists that Tehran must not possess nuclear weapons and has threatened that US forces could seize uranium enriched by Iran.
However, Wang called on Gulf and Middle Eastern countries to determine their own destinies, and encouraged dialogue between Iran and Gulf states to achieve good neighbourly relations and friendship.
“China supports regional countries in building peace and a security architecture involving joint participation, safeguarding common interests, and achieving shared development,” Wang said.
Amid the impasse in Iran-US talks, Araghchi has visited Pakistan, Oman, and Russia in recent days.
Meanwhile, on 28 February, the US and Israel launched a war against Tehran, killing more than 3,300 people in Iran and causing tens of thousands of others to flee.
At least 13 US soldiers were killed and dozens more injured during the conflict, while Iran carried out retaliatory strikes against US bases and assets across the Middle East.
Source: Anadolu