China Seeks Stable Ties with US Amidst Iran War, Eyes Trump Visit
Beijing is signaling a desire to maintain stable relations with the United States as war rages in Iran, and ahead of a planned visit by President Donald Trump later this month. Despite condemning US actions in both Iran and Venezuela, China has avoided direct criticism of Trump and is actively preparing for a summit aimed at addressing trade and geopolitical concerns.
China Calls for De-escalation in Iran
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi has stated that the war in Iran “should never have happened” and warned against a return to a “law of the jungle” approach to international relations. He emphasized the need for all parties to return to negotiations and resolve their differences through dialogue to prevent further escalation and the spread of conflict The Guardian. Wang also cautioned that regime change efforts “will find no popular support” The Guardian.
Conciliatory Tone Towards the US
Notably, Wang Yi refrained from directly criticizing the US during his remarks, instead stressing China’s commitment to a relationship based on “mutual respect.” He described recent talks between President Xi Jinping and Donald Trump as “heartening” The Guardian and characterized 2026 as a “huge year” for US-China relations The Guardian. This marks a shift from last year’s press conference, where Wang accused the US of “two-faced” behavior regarding tariffs The Guardian.
Balancing Act: Iran, Venezuela, and US Relations
China’s approach reflects a delicate balancing act. Both Iran and Venezuela are key oil suppliers and partners within Beijing’s network of Global South countries CNN. Despite condemning US operations in both countries, China has avoided actions that could jeopardize the upcoming Trump visit CNN. The summit, scheduled for March 31st to April 2nd, will likely focus on trade negotiations, Taiwan, and other global conflicts CNN.
Strategic Considerations
Analysts suggest China views the Trump visit as crucial for addressing a range of difficult issues. “Given the ongoing turmoil in the Middle East… China likely sees even more importance in having a chance to address a wide range of difficult issues… with Trump in person,” said William Yang, a senior analyst at the International Crisis Group CNN. Beijing believes a face-to-face meeting will allow for a clearer understanding of Trump’s positions and a more direct presentation of China’s perspective CNN.
Taiwan and Japan Concerns
During the press conference, Wang Yi also addressed concerns regarding Taiwan and Japan. He reiterated that reunification with Taiwan is “a historical process that cannot be stopped” and warned against any opposition Financial Times. He also criticized Japan’s stance on Taiwan, accusing its prime minister of using self-defense arguments to justify a shift away from its pacifist constitution and referencing historical Japanese militarism Financial Times.