China will host a high-level meeting on Friday with Russia and Iran in Beijing to discuss the Iranian nuclear issue, the Chinese foreign ministry announced on Wednesday.
Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu will chair the talks, with Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov and Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister in attendance, according to ministry spokesperson Mao Ning.
The meeting comes as international concerns rise over Iran’s expanding uranium enrichment program. On the same day, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) will hold a closed-door session in New York to address Iran’s growing stockpile of uranium enriched up to 60% purity, just short of weapons-grade levels.
Deepening Iran-Russia Ties
Since the start of the Ukraine war in 2022, Iran and Russia have strengthened their strategic partnership. In January, the two countries signed a cooperation treaty, further solidifying their ties. Both nations also maintain strong diplomatic and economic relations with China.
Last week, Russia’s Ryabkov met with Iran’s ambassador to Moscow, Kazem Jalali, to discuss global efforts on Tehran’s nuclear program. This followed reports that Russia had agreed to assist the Trump administration in past diplomatic efforts with Iran.
Iran’s Nuclear Standoff
Iran insists its nuclear program is for peaceful purposes, denying any intention to develop nuclear weapons. However, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has raised alarms about Tehran’s accelerated uranium enrichment.
In 2015, Iran signed the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) with the U.S., China, Russia, Britain, France, and Germany, which lifted economic sanctions in exchange for limits on Iran’s nuclear activities. However, the deal collapsed in 2018 when then-U.S. President Donald Trump withdrew from the agreement, prompting Iran to gradually roll back its commitments.
China has repeatedly voiced support for Iran’s “legitimate rights” and urged for a revival of nuclear negotiations to prevent further escalation.
With global tensions rising, Friday’s meeting in Beijing will be closely watched as China, Russia, and Iran discuss the future of Iran’s nuclear program and potential diplomatic solutions.
