Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Wednesday that China is ready to help create conditions for peace talks and play a greater role in restoring peace and stability in the Middle East. He made the remarks during talks in Beijing with Iranian Foreign Minister Seyyed Abbas Araghchi, whose visit followed attacks by the United States and Israel on Iran on Feb 28.
Wang noted that more than two months of fighting has dealt a severe blow to regional and global peace and stability. He said a full end to the fighting cannot wait and that staying committed to negotiations is particularly important.
Araghchi briefed Wang on the latest developments in Iran-US negotiations. He said Iran will firmly safeguard its national sovereignty and dignity while continuing to build consensus through peaceful negotiations. Araghchi also stressed that the issue of keeping the Strait of Hormuz open should be resolved as soon as possible.
Wang said China supports Iran in safeguarding its national sovereignty and security. He appreciated Iran's commitment not to develop nuclear weapons while recognizing its legitimate right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. China encourages dialogue among Gulf countries and supports building a regional peace and security architecture based on common participation and shared interests.
Since the fighting started, Wang has held nearly 30 phone calls with senior officials from relevant parties, including a call last week with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. In April, President Xi Jinping put forward a four-point proposal on maintaining peace and stability in the Middle East.
