During a media briefing at the Chinese consulate in Erbil on Sunday, China’s Consul General, Jiu Jun, highlighted several key positions regarding regional developments, trade relations, and foreign policy. His statements focused on Iraq’s economic potential, China’s diplomatic stance on regional conflicts, and China’s relations with the United States.
China’s Economic Partnership with Iraq
Consul General Jiu Jun emphasized Iraq’s importance as a strategic economic partner, particularly highlighting its role as a major energy supplier. He underscored the potential benefits Iraq could gain from aligning with China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a global infrastructure development and trade network that spans several continents.
“Iraq has access to our logistics networks under the Belt and Road Initiative. There are significant opportunities for infrastructure development and trade routes that could benefit the country,” Jiu Jun stated. He encouraged both the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) and the federal government to align their economic strategies with the BRI to attract Chinese investment and expertise.
In addition to infrastructure development, Jiu Jun pointed to opportunities in petrochemicals and smart agriculture as key areas where Iraq could strengthen economic partnerships with China, acknowledging the high economic potential of these sectors.
China’s Stance on Regional Conflicts
On the issue of Gaza, Jiu Jun reaffirmed China’s commitment to promoting peace and stability in the region through dialogue and negotiation. He expressed concern over the prolonged suffering in Gaza, which has led to significant destruction and loss of life. China advocates for a lasting ceasefire and a return to peace, with Jiu Jun stressing the importance of Gaza being controlled by its people and not used as a political tool.
Regarding Syria, Jiu Jun acknowledged the country’s political transition and expressed hopes for stability through national reconciliation. He emphasized that the new Syrian government must ensure inclusivity and involve all factions in the dialogue and constitution-making process. He also cautioned against Syria becoming a haven for terrorist groups, as such a scenario would pose a danger to everyone.
Jiu Jun further referenced China’s diplomatic role in the region, highlighting its past mediation efforts between Saudi Arabia and Iran and its continued support for Palestinian reconciliation efforts.
Tensions Between China and the United States
In his remarks on US-China relations, Jiu Jun described the relationship between the two powers as strained, largely due to Washington’s approach to trade and foreign policy. He specifically criticized the US for what he referred to as a “Cold War mentality” and for imposing tariffs on Chinese imports. “The US remains stuck in a Cold War mentality,” he noted, adding that the imposition of a 20% tariff on Chinese goods was unfair. In response, Jiu Jun made it clear that China would reciprocate with equivalent tariffs on American products.
Taiwan Issue
Jiu Jun reiterated China’s stance on Taiwan, declaring that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China. He stated that any efforts toward Taiwanese independence were unacceptable, reaffirming Beijing’s preference for peaceful reunification. However, he warned that if Taiwan’s authorities continue to push for independence, China would not hesitate to use force to prevent it.
In summary, the briefing highlighted China’s strategic goals in Iraq, its efforts to foster peace in the Middle East, and its firm stance on Taiwan, while also addressing its growing tension with the United States. These positions reflect China’s broader foreign policy objectives, emphasizing regional cooperation, infrastructure development, and the protection of national sovereignty.
