Chinese FM holds phone talks with Iranian counterpart

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, had a phone call with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi on Tuesday.

Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest regional developments, saying that the attacks by Israel and the U.S. on Iran's nuclear facilities were dangerous acts that seriously violated international law. Iran had no choice but to respond, Araghchi said. Iran and Israel have just reached a ceasefire, but the situation remains unstable. Only when Israel stops its aggression can genuine negotiations begin, Araghchi noted.

Araghchi said that foreign ministers from the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) have condemned the actions of the U.S. and Israel, and expressed hope that the UN Security Council will play a role in response. He also expressed gratitude for China's understanding and support of Iran's legitimate position, and said Tehran is willing to maintain close communication with Beijing, hoping China will play a greater role in de-escalating tensions.

For his part, Wang said that China has always been a builder of peace and a promoter of stability in the Middle East. Following the U.S. strikes on Iran, China was among the first to voice condemnation. Military attacks on nuclear facilities under the safeguards and supervision of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) are a grave violation of the purposes of the UN Charter and international law and could trigger nuclear leaks or even nuclear disasters, which the international community should firmly oppose, said Wang.

Wang stated that China supports Iran's efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty and security, and, under that premise, achieving a genuine ceasefire, restoring normal life for the people, and working toward easing tensions in the Middle East

Wang praised the OIC for voicing a unified call for a ceasefire and peace, and expressed China's willingness to help the UN Security Council fulfill its primary responsibility of maintaining international peace and security.

Wang also expressed appreciation for the Iranian government's support in helping evacuate Chinese nationals from Iran and called on Tehran to continue ensuring the safety of Chinese institutions, personnel, and diplomatic missions.