China urges US, Iran to negotiate, emphasizing UN's central role

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for all parties involved in the US-Iran conflict to prioritize negotiation and mutual concessions, stating that deeply rooted problems cannot be solved instantly. Speaking at the UN headquarters in New York, Wang invoked a Chinese proverb, "Thick ice is not frozen in a single cold day," to illustrate the complexity of the situation.

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As the saying goes, 'Thick ice is not frozen in a single cold day,' so long-standing issues cannot be resolved overnight.

Wang stressed that the core of the Middle East's current instability lies in the negotiations between the United States and Iran. He expressed support for mediation efforts by countries like Pakistan and acknowledged the endeavors made by both the US and Iran. His remarks came as talks to finalize a ceasefire memorandum of understanding between the two nations continue, despite ongoing disagreements on key issues.

During his tenure as president of the UN Security Council for May, Wang also chaired a meeting on upholding the UN Charter's purposes and principles. He asserted that the UN is the cornerstone of the post-war international order and its role and status must be strengthened, not weakened. He also indirectly criticized the United States for its unpaid UN contributions, urging member states to fulfill their financial obligations.

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We hope that the relevant parties will adhere to the pursuit of a ceasefire, move towards each other, and bring peace back to the Middle East as soon as possible.

Separately, Russia's UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia raised concerns about the US denying a visa to a Russian deputy foreign minister who was scheduled to attend the meeting. Nebenzia also commented on Iran's enriched uranium processing, suggesting there was no reason to reject a request from Iran to transfer uranium to Russia if such a request were made under an agreement.

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The UN is the cornerstone of the post-war international order. Its role should be strengthened, not weakened, and its status should be upheld, not replaced.