Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi criticized the idea of “might makes right” during a joint press conference in Paris. He questioned where rules and justice fit under such logic. Specifically, Wang asked, “How should small and medium countries find their place? Should they be left vulnerable to others?”
Wang, a Political Bureau member of the CPC Central Committee, visited Europe from June 30 to July 6. During this trip, the EU, Germany, and France invited him.
When asked about China’s stance on the Iran nuclear issue and Middle East tensions, Wang said dialogue and negotiation could have solved the Iran nuclear issue peacefully. However, instead, new crises erupted. Despite calls for peace, the door remains closed. As a result, China regrets this outcome deeply and believes the world must learn from it.
Wang reaffirmed China’s position: Iran has repeatedly promised not to develop nuclear weapons. Additionally, China respects Iran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy as an NPT signatory. Therefore, Wang urged all parties to speed up negotiations and secure a new agreement. Moreover, he insisted the IAEA must fully supervise Iran’s nuclear activities.
Wang stressed peace depends on sincere efforts from all involved. Furthermore, he warned against military conflict between Israel and Iran. He emphasized that war cannot resolve the Iran nuclear issue, and preemptive strikes lack legitimacy. In fact, excessive force will only escalate violence and hatred. Accordingly, he condemned the US bombing of Iran’s nuclear sites as a dangerous precedent, warning of potential global consequences.
Furthermore, Wang stressed the Middle East’s core issue lies in the Palestinian question. In addition, he urged an end to Gaza’s humanitarian crisis. Wang insisted the international community must stop marginalizing the Palestinian issue and honor Arab nations’ legitimate aspirations. Indeed, the “two-state solution” remains the only viable path to peace. Therefore, he called for concrete international support to achieve this goal.
Lastly, Wang called on China and France, as UN Security Council permanent members, to uphold justice and responsibility. Both should support dialogue, reject double standards, and focus on facts. In conclusion, he emphasized the UN and Security Council must actively promote peace. China will work with France tirelessly toward these objectives.
