Beijing: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has emphasized that military pressure is not a viable solution to the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran. Wang made these remarks during a meeting with Qatari Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani in Beijing.
According to Anadolu Agency, the Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement indicating that the discussions between the two ministers focused on the situation in the Middle East and Gulf region. Wang highlighted the severe impact of the conflict on regional security, energy, shipping, and supply-chain stability. He stressed that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable paths forward, emphasizing the importance of respecting the sovereignty and security of all countries involved.
Wang underscored the need to address the legitimate concerns of all parties and uphold the basic principles of international law and norms governing international relations. He expressed China's willingness to enhance communication and coordination with Qatar and other regional parties to support countries in determining their own futures. China aims to work towards restoring regional peace and stability and establishing a just and equitable new regional security architecture.
The remarks by the Chinese Foreign Minister come amid escalating tensions in the Middle East. The US and Iran have been exchanging military attacks, while negotiations remain stalled due to disagreements over navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial waterway for global energy and commodity supplies. The conflict intensified when the US and Israel launched a war against Iran on February 28, resulting in over 3,000 casualties, according to Tehran. In response, Iran targeted US assets across the region.
In June, Washington and Tehran signed a memorandum of understanding, facilitated by Pakistani and Qatari mediation, aimed at halting military operations and reopening the Strait of Hormuz to navigation. However, implementation of the agreement stalled due to disagreements over mutual commitments and navigation through the strait, leading to a resumption of hostilities in July.