China urges political solution to Iran crisis

China always believes that dialogue and negotiation is the right way forward, and the use of force is a dead end, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said on Friday, adding that to find an early way to resolve the situation is in the interest of not only the United States and Iran, but also regional countries and the rest of the world.

The spokesperson made the remarks when asked whether the two heads of state had discussed the situation in Iran during US President Donald Trump's state visit to China, as the two presidents exchanged views on major international and regional issues, including the situation in the Middle East.

China's position on the situation in Iran is clear, the spokesperson said, noting that the conflict has caused serious losses to people in Iran and other countries in the region, while its spillover effects continue to widen.

The conflict has severely affected global economic development, the smooth operation of industrial and supply chains, the international trade order and the stability of global energy supply, harming the common interests of the international community, the spokesperson said.

"There is no point in continuing this conflict which should not have happened in the first place," the spokesperson said.

The recent ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as well as efforts to explore a negotiated settlement, has been welcomed by countries in the region and the international community, the spokesperson said.

"Now that the door of dialogue has been opened, it should not be shut again," the spokesperson said, calling for efforts to consolidate the momentum toward de-escalation and stay committed to a political settlement.

China hopes the parties will seek, through dialogue and consultation, a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue and other matters that take into account the concerns of all sides, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson also called for shipping lanes to be reopened as soon as possible in response to calls from the international community, and for joint efforts to keep global industrial and supply chains stable and smooth.

A comprehensive and lasting ceasefire should be reached as soon as possible, the spokesperson said, adding that peace and stability should be restored in the Gulf and the wider Middle East at an early date, laying the foundation for a sustainable regional security architecture.

Since the outbreak of the conflict, China has worked to stop the fighting and promote peace, the spokesperson said.

China has put forward a four-point proposal on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, and jointly proposed a five-point initiative with Pakistan aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East.

China will continue to collaborate with the international community to strengthen peace talks and play a constructive role in securing lasting peace in the Middle East, the spokesperson said.