Chinese Ambassador: Beijing Opposes Bullying and Illegal Sanctions Against Iran
Tehran - BORNA - Speaking at a press conference in Tehran, Zhong highlighted the significance of the SCO summit hosted by President Xi Jinping in China. He noted that President Xi held discussions with leaders from 23 countries, including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, as well as with regional and international organizations.
Zhong said the summit resulted in eight major outcomes, including the adoption of the SCO’s ten-year development strategy and a joint declaration condemning illegal military actions by the U.S. and Israel against Iran. “This summit provides guidance for global progress, reflecting China’s commitment to fairness, justice, and multilateral cooperation,” he emphasized.
Iran-China Strategic Ties
The ambassador underscored the strength of Tehran–Beijing relations, calling both countries “true friends” committed to multilateralism. He noted that President Xi has reaffirmed Iran as a strategic priority in China’s Middle East diplomacy and emphasized cooperation in trade, investment, and renewable energy. Zhong also pointed to the progress of the Belt and Road Initiative, highlighting joint projects with Iran that, in his words, “offer opportunities for developing countries to connect with the world.”
Support for Iran’s Nuclear Rights
Zhong reiterated China’s support for Iran’s peaceful nuclear program, stressing that disputes should be resolved through diplomacy and dialogue. He condemned unilateral U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA and Israeli attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities, stating that such actions caused the current stalemate. “The UN Security Council must play a constructive role, restore trust, and create conditions for renewed negotiations,” he said.
He further confirmed that China, as a permanent UNSC member, will continue to back Iran in international forums, insisting that Resolution 2231 remains binding and should be fully implemented.
Opposition to Snapback Mechanism
On Europe’s recent attempt to trigger the “snapback” mechanism, Zhong said Beijing opposes such unilateral steps. “Military actions cannot resolve this issue; diplomacy and political dialogue remain the only path forward,” he added.
Broader Role of the SCO
The envoy also underlined the SCO’s role in building trust among member states, noting that it has transformed regional borders into areas of cooperation and friendship. “Since its founding, the SCO has rejected Cold War thinking and zero-sum games, promoting real multilateralism,” Zhong remarked.
Bilateral Relations and Practical Cooperation
Zhong praised Iran’s active role in the SCO since joining as a full member, saying Tehran has contributed positively to peace and stability. He highlighted cultural exchanges, trade ties, and joint efforts to counter unilateralism as pillars of Iran–China relations.
Addressing concerns about visa delays during the recent war, Zhong said the Chinese embassy has restored consular services with urgency: “We preferred to work overtime ourselves so that Iranian citizens, especially students, could receive visas quickly. The situation has now returned to pre-war normalcy.”
Looking Ahead
The ambassador concluded that China will continue to deepen cooperation with Iran under bilateral and multilateral frameworks, standing “on the right side of history” to promote global peace, security, and development.
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