China Challenges US Positions on Iran, Cuba at UN

Web Desk 

NEW YORK: China challenged Washington’s positions on Iran and Cuba at the United Nations General Assembly on Saturday, calling for respect for the sovereignty of Gulf states and urging an end to US pressure and sanctions against Cuba.

Chinese Vice President Han Zheng, speaking at the 81st UN General Assembly, did not directly name the United States but said major powers had a responsibility to uphold international law, respect national sovereignty and contribute to global peace and security.

“China believes the sovereignty and security of Middle Eastern countries, including those in the Gulf, must be respected,” Han said. His remarks came only days after US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks at the White House, where the two leaders projected a more cooperative tone. The contrast highlighted the continuing differences between Washington and Beijing over major international issues.

Han’s comments also came amid heightened tensions between the United States and Iran. US Ambassador to China said Trump had warned Xi during their recent talks against providing assistance to Tehran and received assurances that Beijing would not support Iran.

The warning followed reports alleging that China had supplied Iran with shoulder-fired air defence systems and helped Tehran navigate restrictions on its oil exports. These allegations have not been presented in Han’s UN remarks as established Chinese policy. Turning to Cuba, Han called for an immediate halt to threats of force against the Caribbean nation and urged the lifting of the US blockade and sanctions.

His remarks came after Cuba’s power grid experienced a nationwide collapse earlier this month, leaving millions without electricity. Cuba has long faced problems with ageing power infrastructure and fuel shortages, while Reuters reported that US restrictions on oil supplies have added to the pressure on its energy system.

Later on Saturday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov also called on Washington to end what he described as a “siege” of Cuba and ease trade restrictions. He further urged the United States to remove Cuba from its list of state sponsors of terrorism.

Han used his address to present China as a supporter of developing countries and advocate of a multilateral approach to international affairs. He said countries, regardless of their size, should have an equal role in addressing global issues and that international disputes should be handled through consultation and cooperation.