China’s representative to the United Nations stressed Friday that preserving the current ceasefire in the Iran conflict represents a critical priority, warning that the Strait of Hormuz situation could become a major topic when President Donald Trump visits China later this month if the waterway remains blocked.
Ambassador Fu Cong addressed reporters at the United Nations, emphasizing the importance of quickly reopening the strategic strait. The Chinese diplomat expressed alarm over recent statements suggesting the ceasefire might be temporary and that additional military action could follow.
“Iran needs to lift its restrictions on the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. needs to lift its naval blockade,” Fu stated.
“The most urgent issue is to keep the ceasefire. And the ceasefire needs to last, and there has to be a good-faith negotiation between the two sides,” he continued.
“I think the international community should be mobilized and raise our voices against the resumption of fighting,” the ambassador added.
When questioned about Trump’s planned China visit this month, Fu responded: “I’m sure if Hormuz is still closed by the time President Trump goes to China, this issue will be high on the agenda of the bilateral talks.”
The Chinese official also dismissed claims from certain American government representatives regarding military collaboration between Beijing and Tehran, calling such allegations “false.”
Fu delivered these remarks while briefing reporters as China begins its month-long leadership of the U.N. Security Council. He announced that Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi will oversee a Security Council meeting scheduled for May 26.
The State Department has not yet responded to inquiries about whether Secretary of State Marco Rubio plans to meet with Wang during his time in the United States.
