Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on Wednesday, a week before U.S President Donald Trump’s scheduled visit to the city.
Chinese state news agency Xinhua announced Araghchi’s first trip to the country since the ongoing conflict between Tehran and Washington that began on February 28. The visit is crucial to China as the world’s top crude oil importer has been affected by the global energy crisis, resulting from the blockade imposed by Iran and the United States on the Strait of Hormuz.
Iran’s Foreign Ministry informed that Araghchi explained the situation regarding talks with the U.S to Yi and said, “Iran, just as it demonstrated strength in defending itself and remains fully prepared to confront any aggression, is also serious and steadfast in the field of diplomacy.”
As per the Iranian Students’ News Agency, Araghchi had said, “We will do our best to protect our legitimate rights and interests in the negotiations. We only accept a fair and comprehensive agreement.”
The Chinese Foreign Ministry issued a statement after the meeting, emphasising that “the current regional situation is at a critical juncture of transition from war to peace”. It added, “China believes that a complete cessation of hostilities is imperative, restarting the conflict is unacceptable and persisting in negotiations is particularly important.”
The ministry also appealed to both nations to restore “normal and safe passage” through the Strait of Hormuz.
It also clarified its stance on the nuclear debate, saying “China appreciates Iran’s commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, while also recognizing Iran’s legitimate right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy.”
U.S Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent had requested China earlier this week to intensify its diplomatic efforts to urge Iran to open the economically critical strait. Bessent also confirmed talks between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on the matter during the American President’s visit to Beijing on May 14. He said the two nations would seek to maintain the stability of the U.S-China relationship after the trade truce in October.
Bessent also urged China to join the U.S in international operations to open the strait while adding that Beijing and Moscow should stop blocking initiatives at the United Nations, such as a resolution to protect commercial shipping in the maritime channel.
