Araqchi, who has traveled to Beijing at the head of a diplomatic delegation, met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday morning.
Araqchi referred to the longstanding ties between Iran and China, describing China as a close friend and strategic partner of Iran. He emphasized the serious and firm determination of the Islamic Republic of Iran’s government to comprehensively promote Tehran-Beijing strategic and friendly relations within the framework of the Iran-China comprehensive strategic partnership, based on mutual respect and trust.
Araqchi then attributed the current situation in the region to the US and Israeli regime’s military aggression against Iran. Referring to the Iranian nation’s struggle, resistance and steadfastness, he said that these efforts have thwarted and defeated the aggressors in achieving their illegitimate objectives.
The Iranian foreign minister also expressed appreciation for China’s principled position in condemning the violation of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter by the US and the Zionist regime, as well as Beijing’s responsible approach toward the US misuse of the UN Security Council.
Araqchi stressed that while Iran is fully prepared to firmly defend its national sovereignty and territorial integrity and safeguard its national security and interests against aggressors, it welcomes diplomatic solutions that secure the rights of the Iranian nation.
He stated that the situation in the region has undergone fundamental changes following the war of aggression against Iran, adding that there would be no place for the presence and interference of foreign forces in the new regional order, which would be accompanied by dialogue and cooperation among regional countries.
Referring to the repeated breaches of commitments by the US, including its violation of the provisions of the Islamabad memorandum of understanding less than three weeks after its signing and the subsequent suspension of its implementation, Araqchi said, “While emphasizing our principles and standing firm to secure the legitimate rights of the Iranian nation, we seek the restoration of calm to the region and friendly and peaceful relations with our neighbors, and in this regard, we have begun dialogue with the countries of the region.”
Wang Yi, for his part, described Tehran-Beijing relations, based on a comprehensive strategic partnership, as important and expressed Beijing’s willingness to develop and consolidate bilateral ties.
Calling the US war against Iran illegal and emphasizing China’s leadership’s positions, Wang Yi stressed the need to establish peace and calm in the Middle East and West Asia and resolve issues through dialogue and diplomacy.
He also emphasized China’s readiness to play a role in reducing tensions, support dialogue, and help establish peace and stability in the region.