Chinese FM meets former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in Beijing

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with former British Prime Minister Tony Blair in Beijing on Monday.

Wang stated that the world is undergoing profound changes unseen in a century, yet certain major powers are abandoning their international responsibilities and prioritizing their own interests above the common interests of the international community. As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council and major global powers, China and the UK should fulfill their international obligations, demonstrate a sense of responsibility, and contribute to global peace and development.

Wang noted that China values the UK's stated intention to pursue a consistent, enduring, and mutually respectful policy toward China. He expressed China's willingness to work with the UK to implement the important consensus reached by the two countries' leaders, enhance exchanges across various fields, deepen mutual understanding, and promote the sound and stable development of bilateral relations.

Blair stated that the world today faces numerous challenges that require greater coordination and joint responses. He emphasized that isolating China is doomed to fail, and the world should seek to better understand China. Blair also noted the importance of UK-China relations and called for strengthened dialogue and exchanges at all levels of government and across various sectors of society, along with expanded mutually beneficial cooperation to ensure the continued improvement of bilateral ties.

Regarding the Israel-Iran conflict, Wang stressed that disputes between nations should be resolved peacefully through dialogue and consultation. He said Israel's preemptive strike on Iran under the pretext of "potential future threats," and the US military planes bombing of Iranian nuclear facilities under IAEA safeguards have sent the wrong message to the world by favoring the use of force over negotiation. Such behavior sets a dangerous precedent with serious consequences. 

Wang noted that while peace requires strength for protection, strength alone does not guarantee true peace. All parties involved in the conflict should take steps to de-escalate tensions, return to the path of political dialogue and negotiation, and work to restore peace and stability in the Middle East.

Blair said the UK pays high attention to Israel-Iran conflict and urges a return to negotiations through dialogue and diplomatic efforts to restore peace, security, and stability in the region as soon as possible.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis and other issues.