China, Iran reiterate call to end occupation in Palestine

ANKARA

The top diplomats of China and Iran on Saturday emphasized the need to address the Palestinian issue by respecting and restoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and ending the occupation.

In a statement released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry following Wang Yi's meeting with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing, both sides highlighted the urgency of an immediate ceasefire, full troop withdrawal, and emergency humanitarian assistance.

The two leaders also discussed the current Middle East situation, agreeing that the region belongs to its people and should not serve as a "battleground for big power games" or a victim of geopolitical rivalries.

"The future and destiny of Middle Eastern countries should be determined by the people of the region themselves," the statement read. "The international community must respect their sovereignty, security, stability, unity, and territorial integrity."

This marked Araghchi's first visit to China since assuming the role of Iran’s foreign minister.

The meeting also addressed the situation in Lebanon, with both sides urging the effective implementation of the ceasefire agreement, and emphasized respect for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity.

Discussions extended to Iran's nuclear program, with Wang reaffirming China’s support for resolving the issue through political and diplomatic means. He criticized unilateral sanctions and pressure tactics, advocating for dialogue and negotiations to resume.

China 'firmly supports Iran in safeguarding its legitimate rights and interests," Wang added.

* Writing by Islamuddin Sajid