BEIJING: Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov arrived in Beijing on Tuesday amid escalating tensions in the Middle East, as the United States ramps up pressure on Iran through a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a vital global energy route.
According to Al Jazeera, Lavrov received a red-carpet welcome upon arrival, signalling the importance of the visit as China and Russia deepen coordination over the ongoing crisis.
The visit comes as Washington seeks to tighten economic pressure on Tehran by restricting maritime traffic linked to Iranian ports, a move that has drawn criticism from both Beijing and Moscow. China, which imports a significant share of its oil through the strait, has expressed concern over disruptions to global trade.
“The Strait of Hormuz is an important international trade route for goods and energy, and maintaining its security, stability, and unimpeded flow is in the common interest of the international community,” China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Guo Jiakun said.
Avoiding further escalation
Lavrov also held a phone call with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, during which he stressed the need to avoid further escalation.
“S Lavrov emphasised the importance of preventing a recurrence of armed confrontation and once again confirmed Russia’s unwavering readiness to assist in resolving the crisis, which has no military solution,” the Russian foreign ministry said.
During the conversation, Araghchi briefed Lavrov on recent US–Iran negotiations held in Pakistan, which did not produce a breakthrough.
China and Russia have both criticised US and Israeli actions in the region and have called for dialogue to ease tensions. Analysts say Washington is hoping economic pressure on China could translate into influence over Tehran.
Meanwhile, China has dismissed reports that it plans to supply military equipment to Iran as “completely fabricated”, warning of countermeasures if further trade restrictions are imposed.
