BEIJING(The COW News Digital) China has reaffirmed its support for Iran’s legitimate rights and interests while calling for the swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz amid continuing tensions between Tehran and Washington.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks during a meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday, according to China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Wang said Beijing was prepared to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with Tehran and continue supporting what China described as Iran’s legitimate rights and interests.
The Chinese foreign minister also urged both the United States and Iran to exercise restraint and demonstrate wisdom while dealing with the ongoing conflict. He called on the two sides to return to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and engage in meaningful negotiations over issues of mutual concern.
A key focus of the meeting was the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important maritime routes for energy supplies. Wang called for the waterway to be reopened as soon as possible and urged all relevant parties to take effective measures to restore normal shipping operations.
The Strait has experienced severely reduced maritime traffic amid the conflict. According to the latest figures cited in the report, only four vessels passed through the waterway on Tuesday. Before the conflict, the route carried roughly one-fifth of global oil and liquefied natural gas supplies.
China also expressed concern that the continuing regional tensions could spread further into Yemen and the Red Sea, potentially creating additional risks for international shipping and regional stability.
Beijing has previously supported efforts to revive negotiations between the United States and Iran and reduce tensions in the region. China has also voiced support for diplomatic initiatives by Pakistan and other countries seeking to facilitate dialogue.
The meeting between Wang and Araghchi comes as restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz continue to raise concerns about energy supplies and wider economic repercussions.
China’s latest position places emphasis on diplomacy, restraint and the restoration of maritime traffic while calling for continued engagement between Washington and Tehran.
