Iran-Saudi Détente A Model for Settlement of Security Issues: China’s Envoy
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – China’s ambassador to Tehran hailed a recent agreement, mediated by his country, on the restoration of ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia as a model for the resolution of security problems across the world.
In an interview with Tasnim, Chang Hua said China’s main purpose in mediating reconciliation talks between Iran and Saudi Arabia was to promote dialogue and to maintain and strengthen regional peace and stability.
He noted that the long-term strategy to ensure global peace and stability is to adopt a new security path that includes dialogue instead of confrontation, cooperation instead of discord, and a win-win approach instead of a zero-sum game.
“The negotiations between Iran and Saudi Arabia in Beijing have provided a model and new ideas for the settlement of global security issues. China will continue to do its utmost to provide the necessary support for Iran and Saudi Arabia and contribute to the promotion of security and stability in the Middle East,” the ambassador stated.
Chang Hua mentioned three main advantages of the thaw in relations between Tehran and Riyadh, saying the rapprochement provides a stronger guarantee of protection of regional peace and stability that are highly important for the reduction of regional tensions, presents a major model for all countries in the world for negotiated settlement of conflicts, and acts as a perfect example of supporting global security initiatives and creating a human society with a common fate.
“This is a small step for Iran and Saudi Arabia in establishing peace and a big step for humanity in overcoming the conflicts and moving towards rapprochement and peace,” he stated.
The envoy further expressed China’s readiness to act as a supporter of security and stability in the Middle East, as a partner in development and prosperity, and as a promoter of unity.
“As a good friend of the Middle East countries, China has no personal benefits in the region, has always been committed to the political settlement of hot issues, and has always acted as a reliable mediator with goodwill. China endlessly supports regional countries in safeguarding strategic independence, strengthening solidarity and coordination, getting rid of foreign interference, and keeping a rein on the future and fate of the Middle East correctly,” the ambassador added.
After several days of intensive negotiations hosted by China, Iran and Saudi Arabia clinched a deal on March 10 to restore diplomatic relations and reopen embassies and missions within two months after seven years of estrangement.
The two regional heavyweights have underscored the need to respect each other’s national sovereignty and refrain from interfering in the internal affairs of one another.
