China and Iran support political settlement of Middle East tensions
Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Iranian First Vice President Mohammad-Reza Aref met in Dushanbe on Monday on the sidelines of the 25th meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of SCO member states.
Li said China will continue working to promote peace, stability and development in the Middle East while encouraging an early resumption of dialogue and negotiations. He stressed that differences should be resolved through political and diplomatic means.
The Chinese premier noted that this year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Iran and the 10th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership.
Li said Beijing is ready to use these milestones as an opportunity to further expand exchanges and cooperation across various fields.
Turning to the situation in the Middle East, he said the sovereignty and security of all countries should be respected and called on the parties concerned to return to negotiations as soon as possible.
Aref said Iran attaches great importance to its relations with China and is ready to deepen mutually beneficial cooperation and strengthen coordination within the SCO and BRICS.
The Iranian side also expressed support for China's efforts to promote a peaceful settlement of conflicts and said it is willing to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation.
The two sides reaffirmed their interest in further developing the China-Iran comprehensive strategic partnership.
According to CCTV+, China intends to continue promoting political dialogue and efforts to restore stability in the Middle East.
