China’s top diplomat, Wang Yi, has pledged Beijing’s unwavering support for Iran in safeguarding its security against “external forces.”
The commitment was made during a meeting with Iran’s new president, Masoud Pezeshkian, on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly in New York, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry on Wednesday.
During the talks, Wang Yi emphasized China’s continued backing of Iran’s sovereignty and security, particularly against foreign interference. “China will continue to support Iran in safeguarding its sovereignty, security, territorial integrity, and national dignity,” Wang said on Tuesday, as per the foreign ministry.
Wang also stated that Beijing opposed external forces interfering in Iran’s internal affairs, particularly through sanctions or pressure.
The meeting comes as tensions in the Middle East escalate, with Israel intensifying airstrikes against Hezbollah in Lebanon, a group backed by Tehran. Israeli strikes recently claimed the lives of over 558 people in Lebanon, marking the deadliest day of violence in the country since its civil war between 1975 and 1990.
Iran, a key regional power and ally of groups like Hezbollah in Lebanon and Hamas in Gaza, has long been regarded by Israel as its primary adversary. China remains a crucial partner for Iran, acting as its largest trading partner and a significant buyer of its sanctioned oil. Both countries have been subjected to Western sanctions, particularly due to their positions on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
