Tehran: China has welcomed the agreement reached between Iran and the United States, describing it as a positive development that could help reduce regional tensions and advance peace and stability in West Asia. Speaking at a regular press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing welcomed the agreement between Iran and the United States on the provisions of the first phase of a memorandum of understanding and appreciated Pakistan's mediation efforts. According to Islamic Republic News Agency, Lin stated, 'China welcomes US and Iran reaching the agreement on text of an initial memorandum of understanding and commends Pakistan's mediation efforts.' The remarks came in response to a question regarding comments by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Sharif had earlier announced that Iran and the United States had reached an agreement through negotiations under which an immediate and permanent halt to military operations on all fronts, including Lebanon, will be implem ented. Lin said China has consistently maintained that dialogue and negotiation are the only effective way to resolve disputes and reduce tensions, adding that Beijing supports all diplomatic efforts aimed at establishing a ceasefire and achieving lasting peace. He also stressed that China is ready to continue working with the international community to safeguard peace, stability, and security in West Asia. The Chinese spokesperson noted that preserving calm in the region and ensuring the security of international energy routes would benefit both regional countries and the global economy.