China reaffirms opposition to US unilateral sanctions on Iran at SCO meeting

Chinese Premier Li Qiang met Iranian First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, on Monday on the sidelines of a meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Heads of Government, according to Mehr News. During the meeting, Li said that US and Israeli attacks on Iran had taken place amid negotiations and without authorization from the UN Security Council.

Li stated that China's position condemning the actions of the United States and Israel was clear and firm. He reaffirmed Beijing's opposition to unilateral US sanctions on Iran and called for the revival of the Islamabad Agreement, while emphasizing China's comprehensive support for Iran's legitimate rights on the international stage.

The Chinese premier also highlighted the shared commitment of Tehran and Beijing to expanding bilateral relations. He noted that the two countries' civilizations, with thousands of years of history and deep cultural ties, provide a strong foundation for strengthening friendship between the two nations. Li said China was determined to further deepen relations with Iran and would firmly defend Iran's legitimate rights in international forums.

The meeting took place on the margins of the SCO prime ministers' gathering, which brings together member states including China, Iran, Russia and Central Asian republics. Iran has participated in SCO meetings as a member since its accession was completed in 2023.

The remarks come amid ongoing regional tensions and continued US sanctions pressure on Iran. China has repeatedly voiced opposition to unilateral coercive measures against Iran and has maintained diplomatic and economic ties with Tehran. The reference to the Islamabad Agreement points to the 2021 understanding between Iran and Saudi Arabia brokered in the Pakistani capital, which Beijing helped facilitate.

According to Mehr News, Li's comments underscored Beijing's stated position of supporting Iran's rights in international forums and its intent to deepen bilateral cooperation with Tehran.