Iranian, Chinese Foreign Ministers Meet in Beijing

Dec. 29—Iranian Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi met in Beijing Dec. 27 with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, at the invitation of the Chinese Foreign Ministry. In addition to talks on implementing provisions of the Comprehensive Strategic partnership in effect in recent years, their discussion included the Southwest Asian turmoil. The Iranian Foreign Ministry summary of their discussions, issued today, presents five points of focus, quoted here in full:

“1-West Asia belongs to the people of the region and should not be a battleground for the games of great powers; it must not fall victim to the interests and geopolitical conflicts of countries outside the region. The future and destiny of the countries in West Asia should be determined by the people of the region themselves.

“2-The international community must respect the national sovereignty, security, stability, unity, and territorial integrity of the countries in West Asia; pay attention to the reasonable demands of West Asian nations; respect the sovereign decisions of the nations there; maintain respect for the history, culture, customs, and traditions of West Asian countries; and play a constructive role in strengthening peace and stability in the region.

“3-The path to stability and tranquility in West Asia is adherence to a political solution based on international law and without foreign intervention.

“4-Relations between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia must further be expanded and ongoing consultations and dialogue among regional countries must continue.

“5-Resolving the Palestinian issue requires respecting and restoring the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and ending occupation. The current priority is an immediate ceasefire, complete withdrawal of military forces from Gaza, and sending humanitarian aid into Gaza. The ceasefire agreement in Lebanon must be implemented seriously and effectively as well. The fight against terrorism and extremism, efforts toward internal reconciliation and sending humanitarian aid must be comprehensively pursued in Syria.” [