China Offers to Mediate End to Iran-US Conflict Ahead of Xi-Trump Summit
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing on September 16, just one week before Chinese President Xi Jinping's expected visit to Washington. This meeting comes at a critical time as tensions between Iran and the US have been escalating for months. China has emerged as a key player in mediating an end to the conflict, which has already had significant economic implications, particularly in the global oil market.
Wang Yi announced that China is ready to strengthen dialogue and cooperation with Iran and safeguard its legitimate rights and interests. He also encouraged Iran and the US to remain rational and exercise restraint, adding that China does not want to see regional tensions spill over into Yemen and the Red Sea. This warning comes as fighting between government forces and Houthi rebels in Yemen has displaced more than 100,000 people.
China's willingness to mediate is significant given its strong economic ties with Iran, including buying a significant share of its oil. The country has openly called for a ceasefire and a negotiated solution that would reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial chokepoint for global seaborne crude oil transport. Wang Yi's comments also come ahead of the expected meeting between Xi Jinping and Donald Trump in Washington.