Iran’s foreign minister Abbas Araghchi met with China’s top diplomat Wang Yi in Beijing, underscoring deepening ties between the two nations just days before U.S. President Donald Trump is set to visit China for talks with Xi Jinping.
The meeting comes at a critical moment following heightened tensions in the Middle East and disruptions in global energy markets tied to instability around the Strait of Hormuz. China, the world’s largest importer of crude oil, has been particularly affected by supply uncertainties linked to the الأزمة.
During the talks, Araghchi reaffirmed Iran’s readiness to defend its interests while remaining committed to diplomatic negotiations with the United States. He emphasized that Tehran would only accept a “fair and comprehensive agreement” in ongoing discussions.
China, meanwhile, called for an immediate cessation of hostilities and stressed the importance of sustained diplomatic engagement. In a statement, Beijing described the current situation as a turning point from conflict toward potential peace, warning that renewed fighting would be unacceptable.
Chinese officials also urged all parties to restore safe and normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital route for global oil supplies. On the nuclear issue, China reiterated its support for Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy while acknowledging Tehran’s stated commitment not to develop nuclear weapons.
The diplomatic push comes ahead of planned talks between Trump and Xi in mid-May, where Iran and regional stability are expected to be key agenda items. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has urged China to take a more active role in persuading Iran to reopen the strategic waterway to international shipping.
As tensions persist, China has stepped up diplomatic engagement while avoiding direct confrontation with Washington, aiming to preserve stability ahead of the high-stakes summit. Analysts say Beijing’s role could prove crucial in bringing Iran back to the negotiating table and preventing further escalation in the region.
