Iran has visited China for the first time since the outbreak of war and signaled the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Analysts say China has stepped forward as a mediator about 10 days ahead of the U.S.-China summit.
China's state-run Xinhua News Agency reported on the 6th that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi met with Wang Yi, director of the Chinese Communist Party Central Foreign Affairs Commission Office and foreign minister, in Beijing. During the talks, Araghchi said, "The current issue of reopening the Strait of Hormuz can be resolved promptly," responding to China's call to resume passage through the strait. He added, "Iran trusts China and expects China to continue playing an active role in promoting peace and deterring war." Wang responded, "China is willing to play a greater role in restoring peace and stability in the Middle East." According to Xinhua, Wang said, "We appreciate Iran's commitment not to develop nuclear weapons, while also recognizing Iran's legitimate right to peaceful use of nuclear energy."
This marks the first face-to-face meeting between the two countries' top diplomats since the war broke out in late February. China used the expression "yingyao" (應邀, "at the invitation of") in its announcement of Araghchi's visit, signaling that the trip was arranged at Beijing's request.
Analysts say China's decision to invite Iran about 10 days ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China (Nov. 14-15) reflects its intent to step forward as a mediator. China is known to have persuaded Iran behind the scenes and played a troubleshooter role when a two-week ceasefire was reached on Oct. 7. Until then, Beijing had avoided direct involvement, but as the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz prolonged and the blow to the Chinese economy grew, it began to move to the forefront, analysts say.
