Beijing, April 16, 2024, The Europe Today: Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, engaged in a phone conversation on Monday to address the escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, according to official reports.
During the call, Amir-Abdollahian briefed Minister Wang on Iran’s perspective regarding the recent attack on the consular section of the Iranian embassy in Damascus, Syria. Amir-Abdollahian expressed disappointment in the United Nations Security Council’s perceived inadequate response to this incident, asserting Iran’s inherent right to self-defense against violations of its sovereignty.
Acknowledging the sensitive regional climate, Amir-Abdollahian conveyed Iran’s commitment to exercising restraint and avoiding further escalation of hostilities. He also advocated for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, expressing support for China’s diplomatic efforts aimed at restoring regional peace and fostering cooperation among neighboring countries. Furthermore, Amir-Abdollahian expressed Iran’s readiness to collaborate with China to enhance bilateral relations.
In response, Minister Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, condemned the attack on the Iranian embassy’s consular section in Damascus as a severe breach of international law and unacceptable behavior.
Minister Wang acknowledged Iran’s assertion that its actions were limited and in self-defense following the assault on its consulate in Syria. He appreciated Iran’s commitment to refraining from targeting regional and neighboring states and reiterated China’s support for Iran’s pursuit of a peaceful and friendly foreign policy.
Minister Wang emphasized the need to de-escalate tensions, particularly in the Gaza conflict, urging the swift implementation of Security Council Resolution 2728 to achieve a ceasefire and protect civilian populations. He emphasized the importance of preventing further humanitarian crises and called for a comprehensive, just, and enduring resolution to the Palestinian issue.
Highlighting the comprehensive strategic partnership between China and Iran, Minister Wang expressed China’s commitment to advancing practical cooperation across various sectors to further enhance bilateral relations.
