Wang: China, Iran Should Cooperate on Afghanistan

China and Iran should strengthen communication and coordination and play a constructive role in achieving a smooth transition of the situation in Afghanistan, a neighbor to both countries, Chinese State Councilor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi told his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, in a phone call.
Noting the Afghan Taliban is set to announce the formation of a new government in the near future, Wang expressed hope the new government would reflect openness and inclusiveness, completely cut off ties with all terrorist organizations and establish good relations with all countries, especially neighboring countries, CGTN reported.
Wang said although the US has withdrawn from Afghanistan, it bears responsibility for the peaceful reconstruction of the country. He added the US should not try to create new problems for Afghanistan, “let alone triggering new turmoil and undermining the legitimate rights and interests of neighboring countries.”
The foreign minister said Washington’s claim that the withdrawal of troops from Afghanistan is to focus on China and Russia is an excuse for US failure. “It also once again reveals the nature of its attempt to continue to promote power politics in the world,” he added.
Wang cautioned that if the US does not learn a lesson and change its ways, it will make more mistakes and move from failure in Afghanistan to an even bigger one.

Asian First’ Policy

Amir-Abdollahian said the root cause of the chaotic situation in Afghanistan lies in the irresponsibility of the US.  
Iran shares the view that Afghanistan should form a broadly inclusive government that reflects the interests of all ethnic groups, he said, and called on the international community to provide humanitarian assistance to prevent the volatile situation in Afghanistan from triggering a refugee flow.
Iran is willing to strengthen coordination with China to help Afghanistan out of the predicament as soon as possible, the Iranian foreign minister added.
Wang also congratulated his Iranian counterpart, who took office last month. He said China hopes to continue all-round cooperation with Iran, which “suits the long-term interest” of the countries, and added that China will continue to support Iran in preserving national sovereignty and ethnic unity.
In addition, the foreign minister said China will offer further batches of Covid-19 vaccines to the Middle East country to assist its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic. Amir-Abdollahian thanked China for the vaccines it has provided to Iran.
The Iranian foreign minister also voiced opposition to hegemony, citing “major threats to international peace and stability.” He stressed the “Asian First” diplomatic principle of his country, noting that China is a major cooperative partner.
The relationship between Iran and China is strategic and comprehensive, he added.