 "China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi. Image Credit: Reuters")
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a telephonic conversation with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi on Tuesday, according to a statement from Wang’s ministry to seize all opportunities to start peace talks as soon as possible.
Emphasising diplomacy over conflict, Wang said, “Talking is always better than fighting,” adding that “all hotspot issues should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation, not by using force”.
According to Iranian state media on Wednesday, Araqchi responded by stating:
“Iran’s serious expectation from the member states of the Security Council, especially China and Russia, is to prevent the US from continuing to abuse the Council by taking a firm stance in condemning the aggression of the US and the Zionist regime (Israel)”.
Araqchi also briefed Wang on recent regional developments and expressed gratitude for China’s emergency humanitarian assistance. He noted that the Iranian people have grown more united in resisting external pressure and defending national sovereignty.
Reiterating Tehran’s position, Araqchi said Iran is seeking a comprehensive resolution to the conflict rather than a temporary ceasefire. He added that while the Strait of Hormuz remains open for safe passage, countries currently in conflict with Iran are not being considered.
He further expressed hope that steps taken by all parties would contribute to de-escalation instead of intensifying tensions, and called on China to continue playing a constructive role in advancing peace.
Wang, in response, reaffirmed that China would maintain an objective and balanced stance, oppose violations of sovereignty, and actively support efforts aimed at achieving a ceasefire and ensuring long-term regional stability.