According to the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, on July 24, 2026, Wang Yi, a member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, met with Iran's Foreign Minister Ali Akbarzai during his participation in the Foreign Ministers' Meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization in Kyrgyzstan.
Wang Yi stated that the situation in the Middle East and Gulf region has once again deteriorated recently, and China is deeply concerned about this. The Memorandum of Understanding signed over a month ago is a valuable achievement of mediation efforts by various parties. It embodies the hopes of the Iranian and Middle Eastern peoples for peace and stability, and should not be abandoned. Since the door to negotiations has been opened, it should not be closed. As long as there is hope for peace, it should not be given up. The urgent task is to continue negotiations to resolve disputes and to implement the agreements contained in the Memorandum. As a comprehensive strategic partner, China firmly supports Iran in maintaining its sovereignty, security, and national dignity. We will adhere to the four principles put forward by President Xi Jinping regarding maintaining and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East. We will continue to support efforts by Pakistan and other parties for mediation, resume dialogue and negotiations among the parties as soon as possible, properly address the issue of the Strait of Hormuz, improve relations between neighboring countries, work together for collective security among Gulf states, and contribute to the restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East at an early date.
Al-Aragzi reported on the latest situation in the Middle East Gulf region, stating that the US had violated the memorandum of understanding reached between the two sides, leading to an escalation of tensions. The willingness of the Iranian side to negotiate has never changed, and they do not wish for continued conflict. Al-Aragzi urged the US to keep its promises, exercise restraint, work towards a solution with the Iranian side. At this critical moment, it is crucial for Iran and China, as comprehensive strategic partners, to strengthen communication and coordination. Al-Aragzi thanked China for maintaining an objective and fair stance, consistently advocating for peace and preventing conflict. He expressed hope that China will continue to play an important role in easing tensions.
