China has encouraged Tehran to agree to a ceasefire with the US

Milan, 8 April (LaPresse/AP) – China, which is Tehran’s main trading partner, has been in talks with the Iranians to persuade them to find a way to reach a ceasefire with the US. This was reported to the Associated Press by two sources speaking on condition of anonymity. According to the sources, whilst negotiations were underway, Chinese officials were in contact with their Iranian counterparts to encourage Tehran to find a way towards an agreement. Beijing had initially worked with intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt, in an attempt to use its influence. On Tuesday morning, Mao Ning, spokesperson for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, stated: “All parties must demonstrate sincerity and swiftly bring an end to this war, which should never have happened in the first place.” She added that China is “deeply concerned” about the impact the conflict is having on the global economy and energy security.