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‘An old issue’: China, Iran to continue ‘strong relations’ despite Beijing’s stance on disputed Gulf islands
- Beijing’s support for UAE to reach ‘peaceful solution’ on Iran-controlled islands will not damage partnership with Tehran, analysts say
- China will not choose sides over the long-standing problem in the Gulf, expert says
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China’s united call with Abu Dhabi for talks over disputed islands in the Persian Gulf will not seriously damage its ties with Iran, as Beijing and Tehran seek closer links, observers said.
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In a rare protest, the Iranian foreign ministry summoned Chinese ambassador to Tehran Cong Peiwu on Sunday to protest against a joint statement by China and the United Arab Emirates.
The statement said China supported the UAE’s effort for a “peaceful solution” to the Greater Tunb, the Lesser Tunb, and Abu Musa “through bilateral negotiations in accordance with the norms of international law and following international legitimacy”.
Both the UAE and Iran claimed sovereignty over the three islands in the Strait of Hormuz, which have been under Iranian control for more than five decades. The statement was made following a visit to Beijing by UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Iranian foreign ministry asked China to revise its stance “considering the strategic cooperation between Tehran and Beijing”, according to a statement from Tehran.
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Chinese foreign ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Monday that China’s position on the three islands issue had been “consistent” in “calling on both parties to resolve their differences peacefully through dialogue and consultation”.
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