Keep shipping routes in Strait of Hormuz safe: FM
China called on all parties to safeguard the security of shipping routes in the Strait of Hormuz, Foreign Minister spokeswoman Mao Ning said on Tuesday. She told a regular news briefing that energy security is crucial to the global economy, and all parties share the responsibility to ensure stable and smooth energy supplies. Mao also renewed calls for an immediate end to military operations in the Middle East and the return to dialogue and negotiation on the Iranian nuclear issue as soon as possible. She said China respects Iran's legitimate right to the peaceful use of nuclear energy. The spokeswoman also said Beijing noted Tehran's reiteration of having no intention of developing nuclear weapons. Mao urged all parties to preserve the international nuclear non-proliferation regime and safeguard peace and stability in the region and the world at large. Edited by Edmond Fong