Arms Embargo against Iran Lifted, China to Continue Arms Trade in Prudent Manner ;Spokesperson

Beijing ; Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Zhao Lijian has said that  the Security Council Resolution 2231 has clear stipulation of lifting the restrictive measures like the arms embargo against Iran, which should be faithfully implemented.China will continue handling arms trade in a prudent manner.

In a regular press conference on October 19, 2020, to a question by AFP that  Iran said yesterday that UN arms embargo on Iran has been lifted. Is China ready or willing to sell arms to Iran?

Zhao Lijian replied “According to the UN Security Council Resolution 2231, the Security Council’s arms embargo and travel restrictions against Iran expired on October 18, marking the completion of the first phase of the implementation of Resolution 2231. This is an important moment in the implementation process of the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, reflecting the international community’s common position on upholding multilateralism, the authority of the Security Council, the existing outcomes of the Iranian nuclear issue and the efficacy of the JCPOA. China will work with all parties to continue maintaining the steady follow-up implementation of the JCPOA and Resolution 2231, move forward the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue, and safeguard the international non-proliferation system and peace and stability of the Middle East and the Gulf region.”

“The Security Council Resolution 2231 has clear stipulation of lifting the restrictive measures like the arms embargo against Iran, which should be faithfully implemented. China has been committed to safeguarding peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region, and proactively advancing the political and diplomatic settlement of the Iranian nuclear issue. Following our policy on the export of military articles and our international obligations, China will continue handling arms trade in a prudent manner.” He added.

Phoenix TV asked that  the Iranian foreign ministry said that the country may procure any necessary arms and equipment from any source solely based on its defensive needs. The US Secretary of State Pompeo said that despite the termination of the UN arms embargo against Iran, the United States will still sanction those who sell arms to Iran. What’s China’s comment on this?

Zhao Lijian responded that  the United States’ move makes no sense. China opposes unilateral sanctions imposed by the US. The United States even claims China will export huge amounts of weapons to Iran. In fact, China’s policy and practice on export of military articles reflect a high sense of responsibility. By contrast, the US has been selling its arms all over the world, seeking geopolitical interests through arms trade, interfering in other countries’ internal affairs and even withdrawing its signing of the Arms Trade Treaty. It is in no position to make unwarranted accusations against China.

“Resolution 2231 makes clear arrangements for lifting the arms embargo against Iran and other restrictive measures, which should be implemented accurately. I just talked about China’s position earlier.” He concluded.