China Late to Announce Iranian Deputy FM's Visit Amid Trump's 'Iran Isolation' Threats

While U.S. President Donald Trump has vowed an "economic isolation operation" against Iran, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has belatedly disclosed the visit of Iran's deputy foreign minister to China.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced via its website on August 23 that Vice Foreign Minister Miao Deyu met with Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi in Beijing on August 17.

According to the Foreign Ministry, Gharibabadi briefed China on the latest developments in the Gulf region and Iran's stance, stating, "In the face of changes in the Gulf situation, Iran is firmly safeguarding its sovereignty and security, while simultaneously remaining willing to resolve issues through diplomatic negotiations." He added, "Iran is grateful for China's defense of justice and expects China to play a greater role in safeguarding regional peace and stability."

Gharibabadi emphasized, "Over the 55 years since the establishment of diplomatic ties, and particularly over the past decade since the establishment of the comprehensive strategic partnership, Iran and China have maintained close communication and coordination on major international and regional issues."

Miao stated, "China is closely monitoring the situation in the Middle East and the Gulf, and is actively striving to promote reconciliation and dialogue," adding, "We will continue our efforts for the early restoration of peace and tranquility in the Middle East by adhering to the spirit of the 'four proposals' put forward by President Xi Jinping regarding the safeguarding and promotion of Middle Eastern peace and stability."

The 'four proposals' presented by President Xi in April refer to upholding peaceful coexistence, upholding national sovereignty, upholding international rule of law, and upholding the comprehensive principles of development and security.

Miao also noted, "This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Iran. Over the past half-century, bilateral relations have developed smoothly and healthily, and with the declaration of the comprehensive strategic partnership in two thousand sixteen, cooperation across various fields has progressed steadily," adding, "We are willing to promote bilateral relations so that they develop stably and for the long term."

China's announcement of Gharibabadi's visit came after President Trump declared an "economic isolation operation" targeting Iran on August 19 (local time), warning that third countries providing funds to Iran would also pay a "massive economic price."

China is widely considered a prominent country that could become a target of U.S. economic isolation operations against Iran.

This is because China has served as a core financial lifeline for Iran by importing Iranian crude oil at discounted prices despite U.S. sanctions against Iran.

At the same time, some observers have raised questions over whether the Trump administration, which has been locked in trade frictions with China for a considerable period, will be able to pursue sanctions against China that could trigger additional economic and political conflicts.

(Photo: Provided by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Yonhap News)
※ Please note: This article was translated by AI and may contain errors.