Don't shut Hormuz, says China

Irish Sun (IANS) Thursday 19th January, 2012

The Strait of Hormuz should be kept open 'under all circumstances', Chinese premier Wen Jiabao has said, in a clear warning to both Iran and the US.

Beijing opposes 'any extreme acts' at the strategic passageway, the China Daily quoted him as saying Wednesday.

'Any extreme acts across the Strait of Hormuz, under whatever circumstances they are taken, are against the common interests and aspiration of the people across the world,' Wen said here.

The Chinese premier said cargo transportation through the strait should be protected because it concerns the interests of the whole humanity.

China maintains that the Iranian nuclear issue should be resolved through peaceful means, he said.

China 'firmly opposes Iran producing and possessing nuclear weapons and will work with concerned parties to establish a nuclear-free Middle East', Wen said.

Wen arrived in Doha Wednesday after an official visit to the United Arab Emirates.