China urges reopening of Strait of Hormuz amid Iran talks in Beijing
China has called for the Strait of Hormuz to be reopened “as soon as possible” during high-level talks with Iran, as tensions continue following the ongoing conflict involving Iran and the United States.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks during a meeting in Beijing with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araqchi, who is on his first official visit to China since the outbreak of the Iran war.
According to Chinese state media, Wang Yi emphasized that achieving a lasting ceasefire remains an “urgent priority” and warned that renewed hostilities would further destabilize the region. He also stated that China is ready to support efforts aimed at de-escalation and renewed diplomatic engagement.
“The international community shares a common concern over restoring normal and secure navigation through the Strait, and China hopes relevant parties will respond as soon as possible to the strong call from the international community,” Wang said.
The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil transit routes, has reportedly been disrupted due to ongoing blockades imposed amid the conflict. The waterway is essential for global energy supplies, particularly for China, which remains one of Iran’s largest oil buyers despite US sanctions.
Wang also reiterated China’s call for dialogue between the United States and Iran, while praising Iran’s stated commitment not to develop nuclear weapons.
Araqchi, in response, said cooperation between China and Iran would continue to strengthen, according to Iranian state media.
The talks come ahead of a planned summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where regional tensions and the status of the Strait of Hormuz are expected to be key topics of discussion.
China has maintained a diplomatic stance throughout the conflict, advocating for negotiations while avoiding direct involvement. Beijing has also criticized US naval actions in the region, calling them “irresponsible and dangerous.”
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the most strategically important waterways in the world, with a significant portion of global crude oil shipments passing through it daily.
