China has called for efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible and achieve a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire between the United States and Iran, as tensions in the Gulf and the broader Middle East remain a major concern.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun made the remarks on Friday when asked to confirm a White House statement that China had agreed to help reopen the strait during talks between the leaders of China and the United States.

China's position on the Iran situation is clear, Guo said at a daily news briefing, adding that the conflict has caused serious losses to countries in the region, including Iran, while its spillover effects continue to expand.

He said the conflict, which should not have happened in the first place, has no reason to continue. Finding a way out at an early date serves the interests of both the United States and Iran, as well as countries in the region and the wider world, he said.

Guo noted that the recent ceasefire between the US and Iran, and their efforts to negotiate a settlement, have been welcomed by countries in the region and the broader international community.

Since the door to dialogue has been opened, it should not be closed again, he said, calling for efforts to stabilize the situation, sustain the momentum toward de-escalation and uphold the general direction of a political settlement.

He said relevant parties should seek, through dialogue and consultation, a solution to the Iranian nuclear issue and other matters that accommodates the concerns of all sides.

Shipping lanes should be reopened as soon as possible, a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire should be reached at an early date, and peace and stability should be restored in the Gulf and the broader Middle East, laying the foundation for sustainable regional security architecture, Guo said.