China’s Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sun Lei, said maintaining a ceasefire should remain the foremost priority and that all parties should engage in dialogue on the basis of equality rather than force.
Sun Lei said military action against Iran during diplomatic efforts had caused serious damage to negotiations. He warned that the use of force or threats of war over the Iranian nuclear issue could make the situation more dangerous.
He said the United Nations should not be used for political purposes and urged the international community to create a positive environment for a diplomatic solution.
Sun Lei said the United Nations Security Council should play a constructive role in resolving the dispute rather than imposing sanctions on Iran.
Meanwhile, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed concern over the continuing tensions in the Middle East and called on all relevant parties to avoid any actions that could further worsen the situation and to take practical steps to reduce tensions across the region.
He said the dispute involving the United States, Israel and Iran over the past three months had severely affected the Gulf states and the wider Middle East.
Lin Jian said facts had shown that military means do not resolve problems and that the excessive use of force only makes situations more complicated. He added that talks between Iran and the United States had entered an important stage and that all sides should refrain from reigniting military confrontation.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman stressed the need to respect and safeguard the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of countries across the region.
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