China has consistently upheld the purposes and principles of the United Nations Charter and opposes the use of force in international relations, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday during a phone conversation with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov concerning the evolving situation in Iran. Wang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, emphasised that respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity remains the cornerstone of international order.
According to official readouts, Wang underscored that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and consultation rather than military escalation. He reiterated Beijing’s view that adherence to the United Nations Charter, particularly its provisions regarding non-intervention and peaceful settlement of disputes, is essential to preventing further destabilisation in an already volatile region.
Strategic coordination amid regional tensions
The conversation between Wang and Lavrov reflects ongoing diplomatic coordination between Beijing and Moscow on major international issues. China and Russia have in recent years described their bilateral ties as a comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era, with both sides frequently aligning positions on questions of sovereignty, sanctions, and multilateral governance.
Iran occupies a significant place in the foreign policy calculations of both countries. China maintains economic and energy cooperation with Tehran, while Russia has a longstanding political and security engagement in the region. The situation in Iran, particularly amid heightened regional tensions, has implications for energy markets, regional security architectures, and broader geopolitical alignments.
Multilateralism and calls for restraint
China has repeatedly advocated political solutions to regional disputes and has positioned itself as a supporter of multilateralism. Beijing has called for the protection of civilian lives, the avoidance of escalation, and the creation of conditions conducive to dialogue. In referencing the United Nations Charter, Wang signalled continuity in China’s diplomatic messaging that emphasises sovereign equality and opposition to unilateral action.
As international concern over developments in Iran continues to mount, diplomatic exchanges among major powers are expected to intensify. China’s engagement with Russia on the matter underscores its intent to remain an active participant in shaping discussions around crisis management and the preservation of international legal norms.