On the 6th, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement that Vice Foreign Minister Miao Deyu went to the Iranian Embassy in China on the 5th to offer condolences, representing the Chinese side in expressing deep sorrow over the passing of Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei.
China has continued to express a firm stance regarding US and Israeli military strikes against Iran. When asked how China, as a major power with veto power in the United Nations Security Council and a strategic partner of Iran, will play its role in preventing the US from taking unilateral actions such as assassinating leaders of sovereign states, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning emphasized firm opposition to the use of force in international relations and infringement on the sovereignty and security of other countries.
China to Dispatch Middle East Envoy
On the 5th, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning stated at a regular press conference that China is deeply concerned about current tensions in the Middle East and will dispatch Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs Zhai Jun to visit the region soon to make active efforts to help de-escalate the situation.
Mao Ning said that China is deeply concerned about the current tense situation in the Middle East. In recent days, China has carried out intensive mediation efforts. Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held telephone conversations with the foreign ministers of Russia, Iran, Oman, France, Israel, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and others to thoroughly exchange views on the regional situation, emphasizing the need to comply with the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and opposing the frequent use of force in international relations. He stated that military actions must cease immediately, a return to dialogue and negotiations must happen as soon as possible to avoid further escalation of tensions and further spread of conflict. He called on the parties to the conflict to earnestly fulfill their international obligations, ensure the safety of civilians, and avoid attacks on civilian facilities.