China’s UN Ambassador Fu Cong criticized a joint US-Bahraini resolution regarding the Strait of Hormuz on Friday, arguing that the proposal’s content and timing remain inappropriate for the current regional climate. Consequently, he warned that passing the measure would not yield helpful results for maritime security.
The draft resolution demands that Iran immediately cease all attacks and mining operations within the strategic waterway. However, diplomats expect Russia and China to veto the measure if it reaches the Security Council floor. Notably, both nations blocked a similar US-led initiative last month. They argued that the previous text demonstrated a clear bias against Tehran.
A Call for Good-Faith Negotiations
During an impromptu interview with the Pass Blue news portal, Ambassador Fu expressed his reservations clearly. When asked about the proposal, he stated: “We don’t think the content is right, and the timing is not right.”
Furthermore, he emphasized the need for a diplomatic approach over punitive measures. “What we need is to urge both sides to engage in serious and good-faith negotiations that can resolve the issue. So, passing a resolution at this stage, we don’t think is going to be helpful,” he added.
Ambassador Fu currently holds the rotating presidency of the 15-member UN Security Council, and noted that, under China’s leadership, the Council would not schedule a vote on the resolution of its own accord. Nevertheless, the Chinese mission confirmed its responsibility to arrange a vote if the original drafters make a formal request. So far, the US and Bahrain have not submitted such a request.
Regional Stability and Global Interests
These remarks follow a significant two-day summit between US President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping. According to the White House, both leaders agreed that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to international trade.
During the summit, President Xi clarified China’s firm opposition to the militarization of the waterway. He also rejected any efforts to impose tolls for its use. Meanwhile, China’s foreign ministry expressed growing frustration with the ongoing tensions. A ministry spokesperson noted: “This conflict, which should never have happened, has no reason to continue.”
The US mission to the UN did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding Ambassador Fu’s statements.
