Global Times: Since the outbreak of the conflict in the Middle East, China has been committed to promoting a ceasefire with an objective, impartial and balanced stance. Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held 26 phone calls with various parties including Iran, Israel, Russia and Gulf countries, and the special envoy of the Chinese government on the Middle East issue has shuttled through the region for mediation, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday. She noted that not long ago, China and Pakistan jointly put forward a Five-Point Initiative for Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and Middle East Region, which reflects the international community’s common consensus on promoting peace and ending the conflict. Peace cannot be achieved through force, and political settlement is the only way out, Mao added.
Mao made the remarks at a regular press conference, in response to a question regarding China’s views on the current situation in the Middle East, which witnesses ongoing, protracted conflict in Iran with continuous attacks between both sides, the widespread concerns over the blockage of the Strait of Hormuz, rising calls for a ceasefire and safe shipping lanes, as well as the recent tough postures exchanged by the US and Iran amid reports of a possible ceasefire deal.
Mao said that the situation in the Middle East is still deteriorating, and the conflict is escalating, impacting the world economy and energy security, which is of deep concern to the international community.
The spokesperson noted that the root cause of the conflict in Iran lies in the armed attacks launched by the US and Israel against Iran in violation of international law. The top priority is to immediately cease hostilities, return to the track of dialogue and negotiation, address the root causes of the problem, and restore peace and stability in the Gulf region. All parties should demonstrate sincerity and end this war, which should never have happened, as soon as possible.
