Daily brief
China called for an immediate ceasefire in the Iran war and the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz during talks with Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi in Beijing. The visit, Araghchi's first to China since the conflict began, comes ahead of a planned meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump, where Iran oil purchases are expected to be discussed. China said it would play a 'greater role' in ending the Middle East conflict and proposed a four-point peace plan, which Iran appreciated.
China lodged a protest in response to UK sanctions.
Beijing criticized Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's 'stowaway-style' trip to Eswatini.
The Philippines expressed optimism about progress in South China Sea code of conduct talks.
China intensified criticism of Japan, with no progress in talks.