China warns next phase of US-Iran talks will be ‘more difficult’

China's top diplomat warned that upcoming negotiations between the United States and Iran will be significantly more challenging. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Pakistani counterpart, Ishaq Dar, that the second stage of talks, following an initial agreement, is "foreseeable" to be harder than the first. Wang emphasized that the United Nations Security Council should increase its involvement to support these crucial discussions. He described the current consensus as merely a "new starting point" rather than a final destination, stressing that achieving lasting peace in the Middle East and the Gulf region requires continuous effort from all parties. China, he added, is prepared to collaborate with Pakistan to foster peace in the region. Pakistani officials have highlighted China's supportive role in their mediation efforts between the US and Iran, noting that China is a close ally of Pakistan and a major trading partner for Iran. During their call, Wang and Dar agreed to maintain engagement for the peaceful resolution of outstanding issues, including the security of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil shipping route. Both officials recognized the route's importance for the global economy, energy security, and international trade.

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it is foreseeable that, compared with the first stage, the second stage of negotiations will be more difficult