China Expresses Support to Iran Ahead of Trump's Visit to Beijing

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi/DOK PHOTO Kleinschmidt / MSC via Wikimedia Commons

China has expressed support for Iran amid its conflict with the United States, as Beijing prepares to welcome US President Donald Trump's visit next week.

"China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security and appreciates Iran's willingness to seek a political solution through diplomatic channels," Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchid in a meeting in Beijing, reported by ANTARA from Anadolu, Wednesday, May 6.

Wang said a full cessation of hostilities was essential, while restarting the conflict was unacceptable, and continuing negotiations was crucial, according to a statement from China's Foreign Ministry.

Araghchi arrived in Beijing at the invitation of China for their first face-to-face talks since the US and Israel started a war with Iran on February 28.

Trump is scheduled to visit China on May 14-15, according to the White House, while China's Foreign Ministry said on Wednesday it was continuing to communicate with Washington on the state visit, which had been delayed by the war with Iran.

The meeting in Beijing comes amid tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently effectively blocked by both the US military and Iran, and has affected global energy supplies.

"Regarding the Strait of Hormuz, the international community has a common concern to restore normal and safe shipping lanes, and China hopes that the parties involved will respond immediately to the strong appeal of the international community," Wang told Araghchi.

Wang further praised Iran's commitment to not developing nuclear weapons and said China recognized Iran's legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy.

Trump insisted Tehran must not have nuclear weapons and threatened US forces could take uranium that Iran had enriched.

However, Wang called on Gulf and Middle Eastern countries to determine their own fate, as well as encourage dialogue between Iran and Gulf countries to achieve good neighborly relations and friendship.

"China supports regional countries in building a peace and security architecture that involves mutual participation, safeguarding common interests, and achieving common development," said Wang.

Amid the deadlock in Iran-US talks, Araghchi has in recent days visited Pakistan, Oman, and Russia.

On February 28, the US and Israel launched a war against Tehran, killing more than 3,300 people in Iran and causing tens of thousands more to flee.

At least 13 US soldiers were killed and dozens more wounded during the conflict, while Iran carried out retaliatory attacks on US bases and assets across the Middle East.