China Backs Iran's Sovereignty, Urges Ceasefire at SCO Meeting

China's defense minister, Dong Jun, met with Iran's Deputy Defense Minister, Rear Admiral Seid Abbas Araghchi, on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Defense Ministers' Meeting in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. This high-level engagement underscores China's deepening strategic ties with Iran and its assertive role in regional security dynamics. Dong Jun's statement of unwavering support for Iran's sovereignty, security, and national dignity directly challenges the U.S. and its allies' policies in the Middle East.

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China will continue to support Iran in defending its sovereignty, security, and national dignity, just as it has in the past.

Beijing's call for an "immediate and comprehensive ceasefire" and its pledge to play a "constructive role" in stabilizing the Middle East signals China's ambition to be a key mediator in global conflicts. This stance positions China as an alternative to Western-led peace initiatives, aligning with its broader strategy of promoting a multipolar world order. The emphasis on resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means resonates with the SCO's charter and China's vision for the organization as a counterweight to NATO.

The meeting also highlighted Iran's willingness to share its military experiences, particularly its "experience in repelling the United States," with SCO member states. This offer positions Iran as a strategic partner within the anti-Western bloc, leveraging its conflict with the U.S. as a diplomatic and security asset. For Iran, this represents an opportunity to bolster its regional influence and solidify its alliances within the SCO framework.

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An immediate and comprehensive ceasefire must be achieved in the U.S.-Israel war against Iran.

From a Chinese perspective, the SCO serves as a critical platform for enhancing defense and security cooperation among member states, aiming to eliminate the root causes of instability and conflict. The push for greater unity within the SCO reflects China's long-term strategy to strengthen this multilateral security architecture, particularly in response to perceived Western encirclement. The engagement with Iran is thus a key component of this broader geopolitical strategy, aimed at reshaping regional security governance.

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Iran is ready to share its defensive military capabilities with SCO member states and is prepared to transfer its experience in repelling the United States to other member states.