CHINA’S top diplomat insisted today that “might does not equal right” as he called for the United States to end its war on Iran.

The remarks from China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi came ahead of an expected summit between President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump in the Chinese capital Beijing later this month.

Speaking at a press briefing on the sidelines of China’s National People’s Congress in Beijing, Mr Wang said it was a “big year” for the relationship between China and the US.

He said that while there are many differences, “the two heads of state have personally maintained good exchanges at the highest level,” providing a level of “strategic guarantee” for the bilateral relationship.

While Mr Wang did not confirm President Trump’s visit, he signalled that Beijing is looking for a less fraught relationship with the US.

He said: “The agenda for high-level exchanges is already on our table. What needs to be done now is for both sides to make thorough preparations for this, foster a suitable atmosphere, manage existing differences and eliminate unnecessary distractions.

“China’s attitude has always been positive and open and the key is for the US side to meet us halfway.”

President Trump hit China with the highest trade duties of his worldwide tariffs last year, citing a major trade imbalance with the country.

The two nations agreed to a temporary trade truce last October which paused the highest tariffs.

Mr Wang also repeated his call for an immediate stop to military actions in Iran.

“This is a war that shouldn’t have happened and doesn’t bring any benefit to anyone,” said Mr Wang.

He added: “Might does not equal right and the world cannot revert to the law of the jungle.”

He called on major powers to “play a constructive role” to end the war.