British News Agency

Asia-Pacific markets followed a mixed trend after Iran stated that it has no intention of holding direct talks with the United States.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi noted that the exchange of messages between the two countries through intermediaries does not constitute negotiations with the United States.

Markets displayed a mixed picture. In Japan, the Nikkei 225 rose by 0.28% and the Topix by 0.43%, while in South Korea the Kospi fell by 1.55% and the Kosdaq gained 0.18%.

Hong Kong’s Hang Seng index declined by 0.52%, while China’s CSI 300 opened flat. Australia’s S&P/ASX 200 index showed limited movement.

Oil prices remained stable during Asian trading, while US crude (WTI) rose by 0.72% to 91 dollars per barrel.