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🇸🇬 Singapore /Economy & Trade

China ‘actively committed’ to Iran talks with tensions rising

From The Straits Times · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Official statement Context piece
  • China reaffirms its commitment to a diplomatic resolution of the US-Iran conflict.
  • The statement was released nearly a week after a meeting between Chinese and Iranian officials.
  • This comes as the US prepares to announce measures against Iran and its economic partners.

China has reiterated its support for a diplomatic resolution to the escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, issuing a statement that acknowledges ongoing peace talks. The announcement, made by Vice-Foreign Minister Miao Deyu during a meeting with Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi in Beijing on August 17, was released nearly a week after the event, with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs offering no explanation for the delay.

China is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and is actively committed to promoting peace talks.

— Miao DeyuChina's Vice-Foreign Minister stating the country's position on the US-Iran conflict.

The timing of China's statement is particularly significant as it precedes the US Treasury Secretary's planned unveiling of measures aimed at isolating Iran economically. Earlier in the week, US President Donald Trump had issued threats against Iran and its trading partners following a period of military strikes and a maritime blockade that failed to yield Tehran's capitulation.

China, a major buyer of Iranian oil and previously its second-largest trading partner, responded to Trump's threats by asserting that sanctions and pressure are ineffective. Beijing called for a diplomatic solution, while Iran dismissed Trump's warnings as a distraction from domestic US issues, such as its debt and rising interest costs.

Iran looks forward to deepening cooperation with China in various fields and advancing bilateral relations.

— Kazem GharibabadiIran's Deputy Foreign Minister expressing a desire for enhanced ties with China.

During the Beijing meeting, Gharibabadi briefed Chinese officials on the latest developments in the Gulf and presented Iran's stance. He affirmed Iran's willingness to pursue diplomatic negotiations while also stating its firm commitment to defending its sovereignty and security interests. Iran expressed a desire to deepen cooperation with China and appreciated Beijing's role in promoting regional peace and stability.

Iran appreciates China’s upholding of justice and fairness and looks forward to China playing a greater role in maintaining regional peace and stability.

— Kazem GharibabadiIran's Deputy Foreign Minister acknowledging China's stance and role.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Straits Times. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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