TL;DR
Wang Yi views Russia as a vital strategic partner, coordinating closely on global security and opposing unilateral Western actions.
Key Points
He and Russian Foreign Minister Lavrov jointly condemned large-scale US-Israeli military strikes against Iran on March 1, 2026.
China and Russia agreed to step up coordination via platforms like the UN and SCO following the escalation of conflict in the Persian Gulf.
Wang Yi reportedly conveyed to his counterpart that China is unwilling to accept a Russian defeat in Ukraine to prevent the United States from focusing solely on China.
Summary
Wang Yi, the Foreign Minister, treats Russia as a crucial strategic partner, emphasizing close coordination on international security matters, particularly in response to perceived Western overreach. Following joint initiatives between Beijing and Moscow, the United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session regarding recent military strikes on Iran, where Wang Yi explicitly condemned the unilateral actions as violating international law. He stressed the unity of Moscow's and Beijing's positions during this event, expressing readiness to continue working together through international platforms like the UN and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation to stabilize the situation and push for dialogue.
The commitment to a strong partnership is further evidenced by reported internal discussions where Wang Yi indicated China does not wish to see Russia lose its war in Ukraine, suggesting a desire to maintain the status quo against Western pressure. This relationship is significant as it impacts regional dynamics, potentially leading Beijing to increase coordination with Moscow following instability in the Middle East, despite China’s general restraint regarding direct military involvement in conflicts outside its core interests. The shared condemnation of external military interference underscores a mutual alignment against what both view as the West's imposition of its will globally.
Key Quotes
First, an immediate cessation of military operations. Prevent the spread and spillover of war and prevent the situation from getting out of control. China attaches great importance to the security of Gulf countries and supports them in exercising restraint.
Frequently Asked Questions
Wang Yi views Russia as a strong strategic partner with whom China actively coordinates on major international security issues. This relationship is central to Beijing's foreign policy alignment against perceived unilateralism by the West. He supports working closely with Moscow through international bodies to promote their shared vision of global stability.
Wang Yi, in a call with his Russian counterpart, strongly condemned the strikes on Iran, labeling them a grave violation of international law and the UN Charter. He advocated for an immediate halt to military action and a return to dialogue. This stance was taken in direct coordination with Moscow.
There is an indication that Wang Yi's underlying position—that Russia should not be allowed to lose the war in Ukraine—has remained consistent. This stance is reportedly linked to preventing the United States from shifting its strategic focus entirely onto China.
Sources6
Iran Developments as Impetus for Beijing to Increase Coordination with Moscow
Press release on a telephone conversation between Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Foreign Minister of China Wang Yi
China, Russia and Ukraine: An Overlooked Moment at the Munich Security Conference
Wang Yi Has a Phone Call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov
Chinese FM holds phone talks with Russian counterpart over U.S.-Israeli strikes on Iran-Xinhua
Iran stands alone as Russia, China offer words but no help | MEO
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.