China to Host Trilateral Talks on Iran’s Nuclear Issue
China will host trilateral nuclear talks with Russia and Iran in Beijing on Friday, according to a statement from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. The discussions will focus on the ongoing Iranian nuclear issue amid rising global concerns over Tehran’s uranium enrichment activities.
The meeting will be chaired by Chinese Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, with the participation of Russia’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov and Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi.
Context and Global Concerns
The timing of the talks coincides with a closed-door session at the United Nations Security Council in New York, which is addressing Iran’s nuclear program. Reports suggest that Iran’s uranium enrichment has reached levels nearing weapons-grade purity, triggering international alarm.
The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has highlighted Iran’s acceleration in uranium enrichment, now approaching 60% purity—far exceeding the 3.67% limit set under the 2015 Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).
China, a long-time supporter of Tehran’s nuclear rights, has expressed its backing for resuming negotiations to address the situation.
Escalating Tensions and Diplomatic Stalemate
The U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA in 2018, under President Donald Trump, left the deal in disarray. Since then, Iran has gradually scaled back its commitments, escalating tensions in the region.
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian recently rejected talks under pressure, stating:
“It is unacceptable for us that they [the US] give orders and make threats. I won’t even negotiate with you. Do whatever the hell you want.”
Similarly, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei affirmed that Tehran would not be bullied into negotiations, following reports that Trump had sent a letter urging Iran to engage in a new nuclear deal.
Military Cooperation Between China, Russia, and Iran
As diplomatic tensions rise, military cooperation between China, Russia, and Iran continues to strengthen. The three nations recently launched their annual joint naval drills, “Security Belt-2025,” in the Gulf of Oman, near Iran’s Chabahar port. This marks their fifth joint exercise since 2019, showcasing their growing strategic alignment.
The upcoming talks in Beijing reflect China’s efforts to mediate the nuclear standoff, though a breakthrough remains uncertain. With Iran’s nuclear advancements, diplomatic resistance, and increasing military cooperation with China and Russia, the geopolitical landscape remains tense.