China Calls on Iran to Ensure Safe Passage Through Strait of Hormuz

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has asked Iran to ensure freedom and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway that handles about 20% of global oil trade. This is the first time Beijing has made such a request since Tehran started restricting access to the strait during its conflict with the US.

The call between Wang Yi and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi came as a Pakistan mediation delegation was in Tehran discussing new peace proposals for talks between the US and Iran. China, which is a key importer of Iranian oil and has close ties with Iran, is concerned about the energy crisis caused by the US blockade of the Strait.

The Strait of Hormuz is a narrow 55-km-wide maritime choke point between Iran and Oman that plays a vital role in global oil trade. The Chinese Foreign Minister's call for guarantees on freedom and safety of international navigation through the strait reflects Beijing's growing concerns about the situation.