China Maintains Low-Profile Engagement with Iran Ahead of Trump Summit
Chinese President Xi Jinping met briefly and discreetly with Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Kyrgyzstan, signaling a cautious approach toward Tehran. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the gathering but was not highlighted by Chinese state media, unlike other interactions between Xi and regional leaders such as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The SCO issued a joint statement condemning military strikes against Iran while supporting member states' rights to civilian nuclear development under international agreements. Analysts suggest that China is carefully managing its public image with regard to Iran ahead of Xi's upcoming visit to Washington, where he will meet U.S. President Donald Trump. This measured approach reflects Beijing’s desire to maintain strategic ties without overtly aligning itself with Tehran. China remains a key buyer of Iranian oil despite sanctions and reduced flows through the Strait of Hormuz due to ongoing conflict in the region. Experts note that while China is dissatisfied with Iran's direction, it continues private engagement, keeping diplomatic channels open.
Topics: China Iran Masoud Pezeshkian SCO summit Xi Jinping