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BEIJING: China has safely evacuated more than 470 of its citizens from Iran following the outbreak of military strikes, the Chinese Foreign Ministry confirmed on Wednesday.
Speaking at a regular press briefing, spokesperson Mao Ning said that as the security situation in Iran deteriorated, China repeatedly urged relevant parties to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals in Iran and neighboring countries.
She stated that Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and surrounding states have been working around the clock to facilitate the orderly evacuation of citizens. Diplomatic missions are coordinating exit arrangements, providing logistical assistance, and offering on-ground support at key transit points.
Given the worsening security environment, Beijing has advised its nationals in Iran to strengthen safety precautions and leave the country as soon as possible, while maintaining close contact with Chinese diplomatic missions.
Mao outlined several evacuation routes, including border crossings into Azerbaijan, Armenia, Türkiye, Iraq, and Turkmenistan. She noted that Chinese passport holders can enter Azerbaijan, Armenia, and Türkiye visa-free, while entry into Iraq requires an e-visa in advance and travel to Turkmenistan requires prior visa approval and documentation.
Working teams from Chinese embassies and consulates have been deployed to these border crossings to provide direct assistance, she added. Contact details and emergency guidance have been issued through official consular alerts.
The spokesperson also advised Chinese citizens to postpone travel to Iran and other affected areas. Those already in the region were urged to avoid sensitive locations such as military facilities and public gatherings, remain vigilant, and immediately seek help from local authorities and diplomatic missions in case of emergency.
The evacuation underscores growing regional instability and Beijing’s continued focus on protecting its citizens overseas amid rising geopolitical tensions.
