Xi Jinping and Putin: "Israeli airstrikes are dangerous... the Iran nuclear issue requires diplomacy"

"Iran's nuclear issue must be resolved through dialogue"

International issues such as BRICS and G7 also discussed

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin held a phone conversation on the 19th and strongly criticized Israel's airstrikes on Iran's nuclear facilities. The two leaders expressed their willingness to cooperate in easing tensions in the Middle East.

According to China's state-run Xinhua News Agency and Russia's TASS News Agency, President Putin pointed out that "Israel's airstrikes are very dangerous and do not help either side." He stated, "The Iran nuclear issue must be resolved through dialogue and negotiations," and "I will work closely with China to promote stability in the Middle East."

President Xi also stated, "Force cannot solve problems and only escalates conflict," urging for an immediate ceasefire. He emphasized, "Indiscriminate attacks lead to civilian casualties," and "safe evacuation of nationals from third countries must be guaranteed."

The two leaders agreed that a political solution is needed for the Iran nuclear issue and concurred that the United Nations Security Council should take a more active role. President Xi stated, "China will continue to communicate with relevant countries and contribute to restoring peace."

The Kremlin explained that "the two countries strongly criticized Israel's violations of international law" and "hold very similar positions regarding the Middle East situation." President Putin expressed his willingness to mediate between Iran and Israel if necessary, and President Xi supported him in this.

The two leaders discussed cooperation plans through BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). They also exchanged views on Russia's proposal to establish a new investment platform for emerging economies within BRICS. Sharing the outcome of the recent G7 summit held in Canada, they agreed that "the results were insufficient."

President Putin is scheduled to visit China from August 31 to September 3. He will hold a summit with President Xi on September 2, and on the 3rd, will attend the 80th anniversary ceremony of the end of World War II to be held in Beijing.

Reporter Sohyun Lee y2eonlee@hankyung.com