The Iranian Foreign Minister thanks China for its assistance
¬ Blockade of the Strait of Hormuz disrupts supply chains; Europe may face drug shortages
According to CCTV News, on May 15 in New Delhi, India, Iranian Foreign Minister Alaghazadeh stated at a press conference that the Pakistani mediation process has not yet failed, but is currently going through an extremely difficult phase, primarily due to U.S. actions and the deep mistrust between Iran and the United States.
Alaghazadeh said Iran appreciates any country capable of offering help, especially China. China previously assisted Iran and Saudi Arabia in restoring diplomatic relations. Iran-China relations are very strong, with China being Iran's comprehensive strategic partner. Iran is aware of China's goodwill. Therefore, Iran welcomes all efforts made by China to promote a diplomatic resolution to the Iran-U.S. conflict.
Iran and the United States have long-standing deep differences over nuclear issues, sanctions, and security in the Middle East. In 2023, under China’s mediation, Iran and Saudi Arabia achieved historic reconciliation, marking a breakthrough in their re-establishment of diplomatic ties. Currently, Iran and the U.S. remain deadlocked on issues such as compliance with the JCPOA and lifting sanctions. China has repeatedly expressed willingness to provide necessary support to advance dialogue and maintain regional peace and stability.
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The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz could severely impact the pharmaceutical industry, which heavily relies on petrochemical raw materials, experts warn that "we may gradually move toward shortages."
As reported by The Forum News, the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz and rising petrochemical prices are disrupting global medicine supply chains, potentially leading to shortages of certain drugs in Europe.
The report highlights that medications like paracetamol and antibiotics are particularly vulnerable, as their production depends heavily on petrochemical feedstocks.
Europe imports nearly 80% of its active pharmaceutical ingredients from China and India—countries now also facing challenges in securing oil supplies due to the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.
CEPII economist Deniz Yüner warned: "We might be moving step by step toward shortages."
Coface economist Joe Douais pointed out that affordable medicines rely on "heavy dependence on oil and gas, coupled with highly concentrated production chains."
Although the EU has followed Washington’s stance on the Iran issue, the consequences are falling directly on Europe itself: rising energy prices, disrupted logistics, and now potential shortages of essential medicines.
On February 28, the U.S. and Israel began launching attacks on targets inside Iran, resulting in more than 3,000 deaths. On April 8, Washington and Tehran announced a ceasefire, but subsequent negotiations held in Islamabad ended without results. There has been no news of renewed hostilities so far, but the U.S. has begun blocking Iranian ports.
The blockade of the Strait of Hormuz has affected oil production and exports. As the Strait is a critical route for Gulf states supplying oil and liquefied natural gas to global markets, this has led to rising fuel and industrial product prices in many countries.
Source: sputniknews
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1865320613748874/
Disclaimer: This article reflects the personal views of the author