'Do not GET INTO it!': China fires back at US after Trump threatens Iran over protester executions

Key Concepts

• Innovation & Sci-Tech Development: China’s rising position in the Global Innovation Index and its commitment to science and technology as a core driver of development.
• Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): China’s role within the SCO, its commitment to the “Shanghai Spirit,” and the appointment of Ambassador Yang Bing as Special Representative.
• International Law & Order: China’s stance on upholding international law, particularly in response to statements questioning its relevance.
• Iran Situation: China’s consistent position on the situation in Iran, emphasizing stability, non-interference, and peaceful resolution.
• China-Thailand Railway Project: The tragic accident involving a train and construction crane on the China-Thailand high-speed railway project and China’s response.

China’s Foreign Ministry Press Conference – Detailed Summary

I. Iran & International Relations

The Chinese government reiterated its position on the situation in Iran, expressing support for the Iranian government and people in overcoming current difficulties and maintaining stability. This position, stated twice during the press conference, emphasizes opposition to external interference in internal affairs and the use or threat of force in international relations. China hopes all parties will contribute to peace and stability in the Middle East. This stance reflects a consistent policy of non-intervention and a preference for diplomatic solutions.

II. Argentina & Bilateral Relations

Responding to a question regarding Argentinian President Javier Milei’s planned visit to China in 2026, the spokesperson stated they had no specific information but affirmed China’s commitment to developing ties with Argentina. China stands ready to deepen communication and foster practical cooperation for mutual benefit. This indicates a continued interest in strengthening economic and political relationships with Argentina despite potential shifts in Argentinian leadership.

III. China’s Role in Global Scientific Innovation

China’s recent rise to the top 10 in the Global Innovation Index was highlighted, alongside the increasing pace of innovation within the country. The spokesperson emphasized that science and technology (Sci-Tech) innovation is central to China’s high-quality development, being mentioned 61 times in the recommendations for the 15th Five-Year Plan.

China views its role not just as benefiting from innovation, but also as sharing its outcomes globally. Examples cited include:

• Open Access to Facilities: Large-scale scientific facilities like FAST (Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope) are open to international researchers.
• International Cooperation: Commitment to collaboration in deep sea and deep space exploration.
• Technology Transfer: Technologies like hybrid rice, aquaculture, and trunhaw technology (likely referring to Juncao technology – a mushroom cultivation technique) have assisted developing countries in poverty alleviation.
• Global AI Governance Initiative: Advocating for an open, fair, and non-discriminatory international environment for AI innovation.

China will continue to oppose technological barriers and promote the sharing of innovation outcomes for global development and prosperity.

IV. Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) & Ambassador Yang Bing’s Appointment

The Chinese government confirmed the appointment of Ambassador Yang Bing as the Special Representative on SCO affairs and SCO National Coordinator of China. The SCO, described as the world’s largest regional organization, has since its founding in 2001, adhered to the “Shanghai Spirit” – a commitment to mutual trust, benefit, equality, and consultation.

China, as the rotating chair last year, successfully hosted the summit where President Xi Jinping and other leaders reached consensus on:

• Deepening multilateral cooperation.
• Improving SCO operational mechanisms.
• Building a more just and equitable global governance system.

Ambassador Yang Bing, described as a seasoned diplomat with expertise in SCO affairs, is expected to strengthen cooperation with other member states, contribute to regional security and stability, and promote a shared future within the SCO community.

V. Response to Donald Trump’s Remarks on International Law

Responding to Donald Trump’s statement dismissing the importance of international law, the spokesperson asserted that international law, based on the UN Charter, is the cornerstone of the existing international order and essential for settling disputes. Upholding international law is crucial for fairness, justice, and preventing a return to a “law of the jungle” scenario. Major countries, it was emphasized, have a responsibility to respect and fulfill their obligations under international law. This represents a clear rebuke of Trump’s position and a reaffirmation of China’s commitment to multilateralism.

VI. Thailand Train Accident & China-Thailand Railway Project

The spokesperson expressed sympathy for the casualties resulting from the train collision with a construction crane in Thailand. The accident occurred on a construction site for a high-speed railway linking China and Thailand. While acknowledging the project’s importance, the spokesperson clarified that the current section of the railway is the responsibility of a Thai company and the cause of the accident is under investigation. This response aims to distance China from direct responsibility while expressing concern for the tragedy.

Technical Terms & Concepts:

• FAST (Five-hundred-meter Aperture Spherical radio Telescope): A large radio telescope located in China, used for astronomical research.
• Juncao Technology (Trunhaw Technology): A Chinese agricultural technology involving the cultivation of edible and medicinal mushrooms on grass, offering a sustainable solution for poverty alleviation.
• Shanghai Spirit: The core principles guiding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, emphasizing mutual trust, benefit, equality, and consultation.
• 15th Five-Year Plan: China’s current five-year plan for economic and social development (2026-2030).

Synthesis/Conclusion:

This press conference showcased China’s consistent foreign policy positions on key international issues. The emphasis on non-interference, multilateralism, and the importance of international law was prominent. Furthermore, China presented itself as a responsible global actor committed to scientific innovation, poverty alleviation, and regional cooperation through organizations like the SCO. The response to the Thailand train accident demonstrated a cautious approach, acknowledging the tragedy while clarifying the division of responsibility in the project. Overall, the conference underscored China’s ambition to play a leading role in shaping a more just and equitable global order.