BEIJING, (HornPost) China has reaffirmed its support for Iran’s sovereignty and security, as Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged parties involved in the Middle East conflict to pursue political solutions rather than return to military action.
Wang made the remarks during a meeting in Beijing on Monday with Ali Bagheri Kani, deputy secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council.
He said dialogue and negotiations remain the way to resolve regional conflicts. Wang also called on all parties to focus on political solutions, according to China’s state news agency Xinhua.
The diplomatic engagement came as Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq during the sultan’s state visit to China.
Xi said the Middle East and Gulf region should not become an arena for great-power rivalry. He added that regional peace and stability require joint efforts from all parties.
In a joint statement issued after the talks, Oman backed China’s proposals for peace in the Middle East. Muscat also expressed support for a greater role by Beijing in efforts to achieve lasting regional stability.
The statement called on the United States and Iran to pursue peaceful options, reach a comprehensive ceasefire and resume dialogue and negotiations. It also stressed the need to restore normal and safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz.
China has sought to expand its diplomatic role in the region amid the conflict. Beijing also announced that its special envoy to the Middle East would visit Iran, Oman and Saudi Arabia this month.
The developments highlight China’s growing diplomatic engagement with regional governments as tensions continue to threaten stability and shipping through the Gulf.
HornPost Staff Reporter
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