China calls for Strait to be reopened 'as soon as possible' in Iran talks
China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iran's Foreign Minister Aragchi, calling for immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. This is Iran's first visit to Beijing since the war began.
China is strengthening its mediator role in Middle East peace efforts. Wang Yi hosted Iran's Aragchi in Beijing for strategic talks, emphasizing that reopening the Strait is vital for Asia's trade and energy security. China has strong incentive to intervene—about 15% of global trade transits the Hormuz Strait, and China sources roughly 45% of its oil imports from the Middle East. Strait closure directly harms Asian economies. China's move also reflects efforts to expand influence in the Asia-Pacific region, positioning itself as central to regional diplomacy. While details remain confidential, both sides emphasized the commitment to genuine talks.
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