BEIJING, Thursday, June 19, 2025 (WNP): At a regular press briefing, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Guo Jiakun addressed a range of pressing international developments, including the escalating Israel-Iran conflict, China’s growing cooperation with the Cook Islands, and Hong Kong’s rising global competitiveness.

Guo expressed China’s deep concern over the intensifying hostilities between Israel and Iran, noting that the ongoing conflict has severely impacted both nations’ populations and threatens broader regional and global stability.

“Escalation will produce no winners—only deeper damage and larger turmoil,” Guo warned. He strongly urged all parties, particularly Israel, to halt hostilities and prioritize regional peace. “China opposes the use or threat of force in international relations,” he said, emphasizing the need for responsible diplomacy.

Responding to questions on potential U.S. strikes on Iran, Guo reiterated Beijing’s stance on upholding the UN Charter and respecting national sovereignty, calling for major global powers to foster conditions conducive to dialogue rather than disaster.

Amid the conflict, China has evacuated more than 1,600 nationals from Iran and several hundred from Israel. Guo assured that the Foreign Ministry and Chinese missions would continue to assist citizens in reaching safety.

Asked about New Zealand suspending budget funding to the Cook Islands following the island nation’s strategic partnership with China, Guo reaffirmed that China’s cooperation with the Cook Islands is based on mutual respect and development. He emphasized that it “targets no third party and should not be disrupted by any.”

Responding to a question on Hong Kong’s climb to third place in the IMD World Competitiveness Rankings 2025, Guo said the city’s performance underscores the success of the “One Country, Two Systems” framework. He highlighted robust foreign investment, a surge in overseas visitors, and global fundraising leadership through the Hong Kong Stock Exchange as proof of international confidence in the region.

With the National Security Law entering its fifth year, Guo expressed optimism about Hong Kong’s future, citing its unique advantage of mainland support and global connectivity.

Following calls from Oman and Egypt for China to play a larger role in mediating peace in the Middle East, Guo noted that President Xi Jinping has remained in communication with key stakeholders including Iran, Israel, Egypt, and Oman. China continues to advocate for diplomatic solutions, urging an immediate de-escalation and long-term stability through dialogue.

China expressed concern over the U.S. decision to resume student visa interviews with added requirements for public disclosure of social media accounts. Guo criticized the politicization of education and urged Washington to uphold President Trump’s stated welcome of Chinese students and protect their legitimate rights.

Addressing media reports that a Chinese company may be bypassing U.S. AI chip export restrictions through Malaysian servers, Guo stated that China requires its enterprises to operate legally and rejects coercion that limits international cooperation. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to open and fair trade, particularly with regional partners like Malaysia.