China Hosts Iranian, Russian Diplomats for Nuclear Talks

China hosted senior diplomats from Iran and Russia on Friday in an effort to revive long-stalled negotiations over Tehran’s nuclear program.

The discussions come amid renewed urgency after the United Nations’ nuclear watchdog recently reported a significant increase in Iran’s stockpile of highly enriched uranium. Beijing stated that the talks aimed to “strengthen communication and coordination to resume dialogue and negotiations at an early time.”

Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that the diplomats exchanged views on the Iran nuclear issue and other mutual concerns. The meeting was attended by China’s Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi. However, no further details were disclosed.

The diplomatic push follows the United States’ continued pressure on Tehran. Washington withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal under then-President Donald Trump and reimposed harsh sanctions on Iran. The Biden administration had sought a new agreement, but Iran insists that no negotiations can take place while sanctions remain in force.

This week, the U.S. increased its pressure campaign by blacklisting Iran’s Petroleum Minister Mohsen Paknejad and sanctioning entities involved in transporting Iranian oil to China. Additionally, President Trump sent a letter to Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, urging nuclear talks and warning of possible military action if Tehran refuses. Iran’s government stated that the letter is under review.

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi reiterated Iran’s stance, saying direct negotiations would only be possible if the U.S. lifts sanctions and ensures talks occur “on an equal footing, free from pressure and threats.”

Despite mounting concerns, Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei reaffirmed that the country does not seek nuclear weapons, stating its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.