China has indirectly criticised the United States over its actions in the Middle East and Cuba, calling for respect for the sovereignty of Gulf countries and an immediate end to threats and sanctions against the Caribbean nation. Addressing the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Saturday, September 26, Chinese Vice President Han Zheng urged major powers to uphold international law and take greater responsibility for maintaining global peace and security.
Although Han did not directly name the United States, his remarks came amid Washington's military confrontation with Iran and its intensified pressure campaign against Cuba. The speech also came shortly after Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a state visit to Washington, where he received a warm welcome from US President Donald Trump.
China calls for respect for Gulf countries' sovereignty
During his address, Han emphasised that powerful nations have a responsibility to safeguard international peace and security and must lead by respecting international rules.
He stressed China's position that the sovereignty and security of Middle Eastern countries, including Gulf nations, should be respected.
His remarks came against the backdrop of the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel and Iran, which began with US-Israeli strikes against Iran in February. The conflict has heightened regional tensions and disrupted shipping through the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
Trump warned Xi against supporting Iran
Han's remarks followed discussions between Trump and Xi during the Chinese president's visit to Washington.
According to US Ambassador to China David Perdue, Trump warned Xi against providing assistance to Iran during their talks. Washington subsequently received assurances that Beijing would not provide such support.
The warning followed reports alleging that China had supplied Iran with shoulder-fired air-defence missile launchers and helped Tehran circumvent sanctions on its oil exports. These allegations remain disputed, and Han did not directly address them during his UN speech.
The public disagreement over Iran contrasted with the cordial atmosphere during Xi's Washington visit, which included a state dinner and military flyovers organised by the Trump administration.
China urges US to lift blockade on Cuba
Turning to Cuba, Han called for an immediate end to threats of military force and the removal of sanctions and restrictions imposed on the island nation.
Without naming Washington directly, the Chinese vice president urged the country concerned to withdraw its threats and completely lift the blockade against Cuba.
His comments came as Cuba continued to struggle with a severe energy crisis. Earlier in September, the country's electricity grid suffered a complete collapse, leaving millions of residents without power.
Cuba's ageing electricity infrastructure and longstanding fuel shortages have contributed to its energy problems. The US oil blockade imposed in January has further restricted fuel supplies and aggravated the country's electricity crisis.
China calls for international cooperation
Han also used his UNGA address to present China as a supporter of multilateralism and developing countries.
He argued that countries should participate equally in international affairs, regardless of their size or economic influence, and that global disputes should be resolved through consultation.
According to the United Nations' account of his speech, Han also called for the preservation of the international order established after World War II, peaceful resolution of disputes and stronger international cooperation on development.
