Iran is ready to work towards reducing regional tensions and resolving disputes through diplomacy, but will not compromise on its national sovereignty or the fundamental rights of its people, the Foreign Minister (FM) Abbas Araghchi has said.
Abbas Araghchi made the remarks during talks with Chinese FM Wang Yi in Beijing on 16 September.
The two discussed the situation in the Middle East and efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
The Iranian foreign minister said Tehran did not want the conflict to continue and wanted to return to a diplomatic process.
He also said Iran was prepared to engage in dialogue with countries in the region and develop good-neighbourly relations as part of efforts to restore peace.
Araghchi said Iran would continue to protect its national interests and sovereignty while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
According to China’s Foreign Ministry, he said Iran was willing to hold talks with regional countries to establish and strengthen friendly relations and help restore peace and stability.
The comments reflect Tehran’s stated position that diplomatic engagement should not come at the expense of its sovereignty or national rights.
Mr Wang said China supported efforts to ease tensions and urged Iran and the United States to maintain dialogue and return to negotiations.
China has also said it supports dialogue between Iran and Gulf countries and called for respect for the sovereignty and security of states in the region.
The meeting came as tensions in the Middle East continue to draw international attention, with China seeking to encourage negotiations and a political resolution to the conflict.
Iran has welcomed China’s diplomatic efforts and said it wants Beijing to play a greater role in supporting regional peace and stability.
