China Urges Global Ceasefire Amid Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz

China's Call for Peace in West Asia

Beijing: On Monday, China urged nations worldwide to halt military actions in West Asia, responding to US President Donald Trump's request for assistance in maintaining the safety of the Strait of Hormuz for international shipping. Beijing has made it clear that it will not participate in any international naval coalition that could jeopardize its strong relationship with Iran.

The closure of this crucial waterway by Iran, as a countermeasure against US and Israeli airstrikes, has led to significant disruptions in global energy supplies and trade, resulting in soaring oil prices.

China confirmed that discussions are ongoing with the US regarding Trump's anticipated visit to Beijing later this month, despite the President hinting at a possible postponement due to the ongoing conflict in Iran.

In response to Trump's appeal for support from China and other nations, Lin Jian, a spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, dismissed the possibility of Beijing joining the naval force aimed at ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

Lin stated, "The escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters have adversely affected international trade routes for goods and energy, undermining peace and stability in the region and beyond."

He reiterated China's call for all parties to cease military operations, avoid further escalation, and prevent regional instability from adversely affecting the global economy.

Lin also mentioned that China is actively communicating with relevant parties to facilitate de-escalation.

Regarding Trump's suggestion of delaying his visit to China, which he linked to Beijing's response to his request for assistance in keeping the Strait of Hormuz open, Lin confirmed that both nations are in discussions about the upcoming visit.

The two countries are engaged in dialogue concerning Trump's trip to China, with Lin emphasizing the crucial role of high-level diplomacy in shaping China-US relations.

These remarks coincided with discussions between senior trade officials from both nations in Paris, ahead of Trump's planned visit from March 31 to April 4.

The negotiations involve Vice Premier He Lifeng and US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, and are set to continue until March 17.

A senior Chinese official, speaking in Paris, noted that both China and the US recognize that stable economic and trade relations are beneficial for both countries and the global community.

In a recent interview with the Financial Times, Trump highlighted China's dependence on oil from West Asia, suggesting that it should contribute to a new coalition aimed at ensuring the flow of oil tankers through the Strait, which has been threatened by Iran's actions.

"We'd like to know before the trip whether Beijing will help. We may delay," Trump stated during the interview.

In a social media post, Trump called on countries including China, the UK, France, and Japan to send warships to ensure the Strait remains "open and safe."

China, a key ally of Iran and a major importer of its oil at favorable rates, has condemned the US-Israeli military actions against Iran and criticized the assassination of Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei in US airstrikes.