China is seeking to play a balancing role in the conflict between Iran and the US, while maintaining its support for Tehran. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi on September 16, where he encouraged both parties to exercise restraint and engage in in-depth consultations. Wang Yi referred to a memorandum of understanding signed on June 17, which aimed to end military operations and the use of force between the two states.
The memorandum, signed by Washington and Beijing, was intended to respect Iran's territorial integrity and allow the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened without tolls. However, the US claims the text is no longer valid, while Iran considers it still valid. Abbas Araghchi emphasized the importance of a peace proposal made by Chinese President Xi Jinping during his visit to Cairo on September 2. The proposal consists of four points, including respect for state sovereignty and the need for joint measures to promote economic development in the region.
China has reiterated that the current situation demonstrates the inadequacy of the existing security architecture in the Middle East, which needs to be reformed and strengthened. Beijing has expressed its willingness to promote peace, equity, and justice in the region, and has maintained a consistent and stable policy towards Iran. The two countries have close diplomatic and commercial relations, strengthened by a strategic cooperation agreement signed in 2021.
During the meeting, Wang Yi stated that China is ready to protect Iran's legitimate rights and interests. While this does not necessarily imply military action, it could translate into favorable resolutions within the UN Security Council, where China is a permanent member. This statement demonstrates that Iran is not isolated in its conflict with the US and has powerful resources and allies to resist American pressure.
The meeting and subsequent statements come ahead of a meeting between Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump on September 24, where the situation in the Middle East and the Iran conflict are likely to be discussed. The two leaders will need to navigate complex issues, including China's support for Iran and its role in promoting dialogue.
The conflict between Iran and the US has been ongoing, with recent reports suggesting that Iran conducted airstrikes on American bases using Chinese satellite imagery. However, these claims have been denied by Chinese authorities. The situation remains tense, with China seeking to balance its support for Iran with calls for restraint and dialogue.
The outcome of the conflict remains uncertain, with many factors at play. China's role in promoting peace and stability in the region will be crucial, as will the actions of the US and Iran. The international community will be watching closely as the situation unfolds.
Key points
- China urges Iran and US to exercise restraint and engage in talks
- China supports Iran's legitimate rights and interests
- China seeks to promote peace and stability in the Middle East
