China, Iran hold talks on latest progress of Iranian nuclear issue

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Iran's Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi in Beijing on Wednesday. The two sides exchanged in-depth views on the latest progress of the Iranian nuclear issue. 

Wang, also a member of the political bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, reaffirmed China's long-standing commitment to a political and diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, emphasizing opposition to the use of force and illegal unilateral sanctions.

He expressed China's support for Iran's non-nuclear weapons stance and its right to peacefully utilize nuclear energy. Wang further reiterated China's support for dialogue between Iran and other countries – including the U.S. – through negotiations to safeguard Iran's legitimate rights, noting that such dialogue contributes to the stability of the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and regional peace.

Araghchi expressed Iran's appreciation for China's constructive role in promoting a diplomatic resolution to the nuclear issue and reiterated Iran's readiness to continue close coordination with China on the matter.

In addition to nuclear concerns, the two sides discussed the impact of U.S. tariffs on global trade. Wang criticized the U.S. for its excessive use of tariffs, arguing that it has lost international support, and stressed the need for countries to unite in upholding multilateralism and the fundamental principles of international relations.

He went on to further note that China is willing to work with Iran to strengthen bilateral cooperation across various sectors and to deepen coordination in international and regional affairs, particularly through organizations such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) and BRICS to safeguard their common interests and contribute to regional and global peace and stability.

Araghchi expressed his country's strong support for China in opposing U.S. tariffs and other forms of unilateralism and hegemonism. He also reiterated Iran's support for China's presidency of the SCO, expressed willingness to carry out closer high-level exchanges and enhance cooperation with China, alongside affirming Iran's adherence to the one-China principle.

The two foreign ministers also exchanged views on various regional issues, including the ongoing Gaza conflict, the situation in Syria, Yemen, and the Red Sea.