China, Iran discuss Middle East peace; Wang Yi urges dialogue
Wang Yi, a senior Chinese official, met Iran's deputy security chief in Beijing, urging dialogue to resolve Middle East conflicts and supporting Iran's sovereignty. Iran praised China's initiatives and multilateralism.
Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Chinese Communist Party and director of the Central Foreign Affairs Office, met Ali Bagheri, deputy secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council, in Beijing on 2 November.
Wang said the Middle East is experiencing prolonged conflict and spillover effects, adding that dialogue and negotiation were the only path to a solution. He urged all sides to move towards each other and focus on political resolution with a rational and pragmatic spirit, instead of returning to armed confrontation.
China is willing to uphold the series of initiatives and propositions put forward by President Xi Jinping to ease Middle East tensions, Wang said, and work with all sides to continue efforts to restore regional peace. He added that China supports Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty and security, and is ready to work with Iran to promote the further development of bilateral ties.
According to the Xinhua News Agency, Bagheri outlined Iran's views and proposals on the regional situation, saying Iran would resist power and threats while being ready to engage in talks with all sides and work actively for regional peace and stability. Iran appreciates China's initiatives and its consistent position in upholding multilateralism, Bagheri said, and expects China to play a more important role in international and regional peace.