Beijing : China has hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for high-level diplomatic talks in Beijing, where Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi strongly criticised the US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, terming it “illegitimate” and urging an immediate and sustained ceasefire.
During the meeting held on Wednesday, Wang Yi stressed the need to end hostilities in West Asia at the earliest and restore regional stability through diplomatic engagement and dialogue.
He said China was ready to continue efforts aimed at de-escalation, adding that “a complete ceasefire is necessary and inevitable” to prevent further deterioration of the situation.
The Chinese foreign minister also condemned military actions taken by the United States and Israel against Iran, stating that the conflict had reached a critical stage where direct communication among all parties had become essential.
In response, Araghchi thanked Beijing for its consistent and supportive stance, particularly for its criticism of Washington and Tel Aviv.
He described China as a “reliable and sincere partner” of Iran and said bilateral cooperation would deepen further under the current circumstances.
The Iranian foreign minister termed the ongoing situation as “clear aggression and a serious violation of international law,” adding that Tehran would continue diplomatic efforts to protect its legitimate rights and national interests. He also reiterated that Iran would only accept a “just and comprehensive agreement.”
Araghchi arrived in Beijing on Wednesday morning leading a diplomatic delegation and was received by Chinese officials along with Iran’s ambassador to China, Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli.
The visit followed multiple phone calls between Wang Yi and Araghchi since the outbreak of the conflict earlier this year, with their most recent contact taking place on April 15.
During that call, Araghchi appreciated China and Russia’s position at the United Nations Security Council, saying their stance helped prevent further escalation.
Wang Yi, meanwhile, praised the resilience of the Iranian people during the conflict and reaffirmed China’s commitment to supporting diplomatic efforts to end the crisis.
Analysts say the visit holds strategic importance, coming shortly before expected high-level international engagements involving major global powers.
Tensions between Washington and Beijing remain elevated, with China recently resisting US sanctions on companies importing Iranian oil and jointly with Russia blocking a US-backed resolution against Iran at the UN Security Council.
