In a significant diplomatic development aimed at easing tensions and reviving dialogue over Iran's nuclear program, China, Iran, and Russia convened for expert-level trilateral consultations in Moscow from April 7 to 8, 2025. The meeting, confirmed by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, underscores a growing multilateral push to seek a peaceful and diplomatic resolution to one of the world's most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints.
Addressing the media in Beijing, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Lin Jian expressed China's firm support for Russia in hosting the two-day consultations, describing the engagement as "a constructive step toward advancing a political and diplomatic resolution of the Iranian nuclear issue." He emphasized that the consultations align with China's long-standing position advocating multilateralism and the peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue.
The Iranian nuclear program has long been a subject of international concern, especially following the United States' unilateral withdrawal from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) in 2018. Tensions have simmered since then, with Iran ramping up its nuclear activities and Western powers tightening sanctions.
When asked about reports suggesting that the United States and Iran were on the verge of initiating direct talks, Lin Jian welcomed any move that could defuse tension but urged all stakeholders, particularly Washington, to approach the issue with sincerity and mutual respect.
“All parties concerned should make joint efforts, strengthen dialogue and engagement, and prevent further escalation of the situation,” he noted.
Lin further cautioned the United States against relying on “threats of force and maximum pressure,” urging the Biden administration to abandon its confrontational approach and instead demonstrate political will by reengaging diplomatically.
“China has always maintained that dialogue and consultation based on mutual respect is the only correct way to address the Iranian nuclear issue,” Lin said, reinforcing Beijing’s commitment to peaceful resolution and its broader vision for global stability.
While the outcome of the trilateral consultations in Moscow has yet to be publicly disclosed, analysts believe the meeting signals a coordinated strategy by China, Russia, and Iran to counterbalance Western influence and reduce dependence on U.S.-led negotiations.
The latest round of talks may also influence future discussions at the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and shape the diplomatic landscape in the Middle East, particularly as the region grapples with ongoing instability and security threats.
As global powers continue to jockey for influence in the shifting geopolitical terrain, the reemergence of this China-Russia-Iran axis in nuclear diplomacy could redefine the contours of international negotiations moving forward.