'Talking is always better than fighting': China urges Iran amid rising tensions in Middle East

China’s top diplomat on Tuesday appealed to the United States, Israel and Iran to engage in talks and seize every opportunity for peace, according to state-run Xinhua News. Foreign Minister Wang Yi spoke with his Iranian counterpart, Abbas Araghchi, and discussed the latest situation in the Middle East. According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Wang reiterated Beijing’s principled stance, emphasising that all hotspot issues should be resolved through dialogue and negotiation rather than the use of force. “Talking is always better than fighting,” Wang said, adding that this approach was in the interests of Iran and its people and reflected the general aspirations of the international community. Chinese FM Wang Yi held a phone conversation with Iranian FM Seyed Abbas Araghchi. Wang called on all parties to seize every opportunity and window for peace and start peace talks as soon as possible. He stressed China will continue to uphold an objective and just position,… pic.twitter.com/7T2JcOWdjm — Lin Jian 林剑 (@SpoxCHN_LinJian) March 24, 2026 He expressed hope that all parties would seize every opportunity for peace and initiate the peace process as soon as possible. Wang added that China would continue to uphold an objective and impartial stance, oppose infringements on the sovereignty of other countries, actively promote peace and the cessation of hostilities, and remain committed to regional peace and stability. On his part, Araghchi spoke about the latest developments in the regional situation and expressed gratitude for China’s emergency humanitarian assistance. Read More: Iran toughens negotiating stance amid mediation efforts “Iran is committed to a comprehensive ceasefire, not just a temporary one. The Strait of Hormuz is open to all and ships can pass safely, but countries currently at war are not being considered,” he said. He added that measures taken by all parties should contribute to de-escalation rather than escalation, and expressed hope that China would continue to play a positive role in promoting peace and ending hostilities, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry statement.