Wang Yi, the Chinese Foreign Minister, during his recent meeting with Abbas Araghchi, his Iranian counterpart in Beijing, emphasized Beijing's firm support for Iran's sovereignty, security, and national dignity. This meeting took place amid rising tensions in the region, with China, as Iran's strategic partner, seeking to assist in the return to negotiations between Iran and the United States.
Call for Restraint and Negotiations
Wang Yi urged that Iran and the United States act rationally and exercise restraint. He called on both sides to engage in fundamental consultations on issues of mutual concern and urged all parties to take effective actions to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible. This strait, as one of the most important waterways in the world, plays a vital role in global energy supply, and any disruption in this route could have serious impacts on global markets.
Decrease in Ship Traffic and Its Consequences
Before the onset of regional conflicts on February 28, this strait typically saw about 125 large commercial ships passing through daily, carrying one-fifth of the global supply of crude oil and liquefied natural gas. However, according to preliminary shipping data, only four ships passed through the strait yesterday; a figure that has decreased from seven ships the day before and is far below the average of 18 ships over the past 10 days. This decrease in traffic in the aforementioned waterway has occurred following an escalation of attacks in the region.
The Chinese Foreign Minister also emphasized the importance of dialogue and negotiation to resolve disputes and added, "As long as there is hope for peace, we should not give up on negotiations." Wang Yi further stated that China, as Iran's comprehensive strategic partner, will continue to act within the framework of a four-point plan to maintain and promote peace and stability in the Middle East and will support the mediation efforts of parties including Pakistan.
Wang concluded by noting that China's policy towards Iran has remained consistent and that Beijing is ready to strengthen its communication and coordination with Tehran. He also emphasized China's efforts to improve relations among neighboring countries and to promote collective security in the Gulf region, calling for the establishment of peace and stability in the Middle East as soon as possible.
