Iranian FM Araghchi meets Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Beijing; discusses ties and West Asia crisis

Araghchi arrived in the Chinese capital on Wednesday at the invitation of Wang Yi. According to Iran's state broadcaster, Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB), the visit is aimed at addressing international developments amid the escalating crisis in West Asia.

A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the engagement in a post on X, stating that the two leaders would "hold talks" to exchange views on the current geopolitical climate.

In a separate statement shared on Telegram, Araghchi noted that the trip is part of Tehran's "ongoing diplomatic consultations" with various global partners. He emphasised that the discussions would focus on both bilateral ties and regional stability.

This visit to Beijing follows a significant three-nation tour that took Araghchi to Pakistan, Oman, and Russia. These engagements form part of a broader diplomatic push by Iran to consolidate regional support during the current West Asian turmoil.

During his recent stop in St Petersburg, Araghchi met with Russian President Vladimir Putin. According to a report by TASS, Putin affirmed that Moscow is prepared to do "everything in its power" to facilitate a rapid peace settlement in the Middle East.

The Russian President further observed that the Iranian people are fighting "courageously and heroically" for their national sovereignty. During these detailed discussions, Araghchi specifically addressed the "war and aggression" involving the United States and Israel.

Putin also assured that Russia would support Iran's interests and assist in efforts to restore peace to the region. This meeting underscored the deepening strategic alignment between Tehran and Moscow.

Prior to his Russian visit, Araghchi travelled to Pakistan, where he "reviewed past events and the specific conditions under which negotiations between Iran and the US could continue," according to officials. He described the consultations in Islamabad as "very productive."

Shifting the focus to maritime security, the Foreign Minister then visited Muscat. Discussions in Oman centred on the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for global energy supplies.

As quoted by the IRNA news agency, Araghchi highlighted the importance of this cooperation, stating, "Iran and Oman are the two coastal states of the Strait of Hormuz, making mutual consultations necessary - especially as safe passage through the Strait has become a significant global issue."

These diplomatic missions reflect Tehran's efforts to engage its regional partners amid a sharpening power struggle with the US over the control of vital waterways and regional influence. (ANI)