The prolonged war and escalating conflict do not serve anyone's interest, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman said on Tuesday, calling on all parties to play a constructive role in easing the Iran situation and promoting peace talks.
Spokeswoman Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular press briefing when responding to a question on U.S. President Donald Trump's statement that Iran could be "taken out" overnight on Tuesday evening, the deadline he set for Iran to make a deal and reopen the Strait of Hormuz.
"China is deeply concerned and worried about the prolonged war in Iran, which has caused significant casualties and losses, impacted regional security and stability, and affected global economic and energy security. The prolonged war and escalating conflict do not serve anyone's interest. All parties should play a constructive role in easing the Iran situation and promoting peace talks," said Mao.
China urges concerted efforts to de-escalate Iran situation as Trump's ultimatum draws near
China urges concerted efforts to de-escalate Iran situation as Trump's ultimatum draws near
The 16th Beijing International Film Festival unfolded a "water red carpet" along a section of the Grand Canal in Tongzhou District, its sub-venue, on Friday night, when dazzling lights and illuminations brought the ancient waterway vividly to life.
The "water red carpet" stretched 3.3 kilometers on the canal, the world's longest and oldest man-made waterway spanning roughly 1,794 km, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2014. Five tour boats carried guests on the water, and after that they stepped onto a 100-meter red carpet along the waterfront.
Another highlight of the evening was the official premiere and maiden voyage of Journey on the Canal, a large-scale water spectacle performance that is part of activities held by the film festival's Tongzhou sub-venue.
With real scenes of the Grand Canal as the backdrop and stage, spectators from tour boats with panoramic ceilings enjoyed the 55-minute immersive performance that presents the canal's thousand-year history along a 3.5-kilometer stretch of the river.
Designed by renowned artist Han Meilin, the production features artistic installations in combination with advanced technology, including stunning water curtain projections, laser displays and dynamic lighting effects.
Tongzhou District, located in the southeast of Beijing, serves as the sub-center of the Chinese capital. The area is developing into a modern urban hub while preserving its rich Grand Canal heritage.
The festival is running from April 16 to 25.
Beijing film festival unfolds 'water red carpet' on Grand Canal
