China, Iran\'s largest trading partner, encouraged Tehran to accept a ceasefire with the United States, according to two officials familiar with the negotiations, reports Associated Press.

Chinese representatives established contacts with their Iranian counterparts to promote a ceasefire agreement. Beijing used its influence through intermediaries, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt.

China\'s Ministry of Foreign Affairs did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but spokesperson Mao Ning previously stated that \"all parties must show sincerity and quickly end this war that should never have happened.\"

She added that China remains \"deeply concerned\" about the impact of the conflict on the global economy and energy security.