In a significant diplomatic move, China welcomed high-ranking officials from Iran and Russia on Friday to rekindle stalled negotiations surrounding Iran’s nuclear program. The Chinese government expressed optimism that these talks would enhance communication and coordination, aiming to resume dialogue as soon as possible.
This meeting comes on the heels of intensified pressure from the United States under President Donald Trump, who has reinstated a “maximum pressure” strategy that includes extensive sanctions against Iran. Since taking office again in January, Trump has advocated for a new nuclear agreement, but Iran remains steadfast, insisting that any negotiations can only proceed if US sanctions are lifted.
Iranian, Chinese and Russian diplomats call for the lifting of “unlawful sanctions” imposed against Iran, stressing Tehran’s right to peaceful uses of nuclear energy. pic.twitter.com/Huc0VvhtT0
— Mehr News Agency (@MehrnewsCom) March 14, 2025
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi emphasized this position, stating, “Ultimately, the United States should lift the sanctions,” before Iran will consider direct discussions. He further insisted that any talks must occur on an equal footing, free from coercion, and must safeguard the national interests of the Iranian people.
The urgency of these diplomatic efforts has escalated following a recent report from the UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), which revealed a significant increase in Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium, now reaching 60% purity—dangerously close to weapons-grade levels.
In response to Iran’s advancements, Washington ramped up its pressure campaign this week, imposing sanctions on Iranian Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad and targeting companies engaged in Iran’s oil trade with China. Additionally, Trump sent a letter to Iranian Leader Imam Sayyed Ali Khamenei, urging for renewed nuclear discussions while warning of potential military action if Iran declines.
In a reiteration of Iran’s stance, Imam Khamenei stated, “We do not have nuclear weapons and are not seeking them,” asserting that Iran’s nuclear endeavors are purely peaceful.
Source: Agencies (edited by Al-Manar English Website)
