Diplomats from China, Russia, and Iran convened in Beijing on Friday to discuss Iran's nuclear issues, as reported by Chinese state broadcaster CCTV. The meeting aimed to address the long-stalled negotiations on Tehran's nuclear program and explore pathways to revive diplomatic efforts.

The talks involved China's Vice Foreign Minister Ma Zhaoxu, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov, and Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi. Following the discussions, Ma reiterated China's support for "political and diplomatic engagement and dialogue based on mutual respect."

"(China, Russia, and Iran) emphasized that the relevant parties should be committed to addressing the root cause of the current situation and abandoning sanctions, pressure, or the threat of force," Ma stated. He added that the three nations underscored the necessity of ending all "unlawful" unilateral sanctions.

Background on Iran's Nuclear Deal

In 2015, Iran signed a landmark agreement, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with the US, Russia, China, Germany, Britain, and France. The deal imposed restrictions on Tehran's nuclear development in exchange for sanctions relief. However, the US withdrew from the pact in 2018 during President Donald Trump's first term.

Iran initially adhered to the agreement for a year after the US exit but later began scaling back its commitments. Since then, negotiations to revive the deal have faced significant challenges.

Iran's Stance and US Pressure

The Beijing meeting comes amid heightened tensions between Iran and the US. Last week, President Trump claimed he had proposed nuclear talks in a letter to Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stating that Iran could be "handled" either "militarily" or through a deal.

In response, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian rejected the offer, asserting that Iran would not negotiate under threat or bow to US "orders."

During the talks in Beijing, Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Gharibabadi described the discussions as "constructive" and reiterated that Iran's nuclear program is "peaceful." He later met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, accusing "some countries" of creating "an unnecessary crisis."

China's Role in Mediation

China has positioned itself as a key mediator in the ongoing nuclear dispute. Beijing expressed hope that the talks would "strengthen communication and coordination" and lead to the resumption of dialogue and negotiations at an early date.

The meeting highlights the growing cooperation among China, Russia, and Iran in addressing global geopolitical challenges, particularly in the face of US sanctions and pressure.

As the international community watches closely, the outcome of these talks could play a pivotal role in determining the future of Iran's nuclear program and regional stability.