China organizing swift evacuation for Chinese citizens in Iran, Israel

Beijing: China is providing active assistance to Chinese nationals evacuating from Iran and Israel, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday.

The Chinese government attaches great importance to the safety of Chinese citizens overseas. Since the outbreak of the Iran-Israel conflict, Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and Israel have immediately activated emergency consular protection mechanisms, demanding that both countries effectively ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions.

He said at the regular press conference in response to a question about Israel’s attacks on Iran leading to an escalation of military conflict.

Guo Jiakun said that the Chinese embassies and consulates have also issued advisories in a timely manner, maintained close contact with local Chinese citizens and institutions, guided them in safety precautions and emergency evacuation, and actively provided assistance for evacuating Chinese citizens.

He added that some Chinese citizens have already been safely evacuated to neighboring countries. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant embassies and consulates are working with other departments with all-out efforts to protect the safety of Chinese citizens in Iran and Israel and to organize their swift evacuation.

Chinese citizens in Iran and Israel are advised to contact the embassies and consulates for assistance.

To yet another question, he said that China is deeply worried about the escalation of conflict between Israel and Iran.

“We have expressed serious concerns. We once again call on parties to take immediate measures to ease tensions as soon as possible and prevent the region from spiraling into greater turmoil. To put in place a ceasefire is of utmost urgency. Only dialogue and consultation can bring about lasting peace,” he added.

He said that the Chinese side stand ready to maintain close communication with all parties and continue playing a constructive role for a deescalation.