BEIJING: Chinese President Xi Jinping said on Thursday that ceasefire is an urgent priority for resolving the conflict in the Middle East, stressing that the use of force is not the right solution to international disputes.
In a phone conversation with his Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin regarding the situation in the Middle East, Xi urged the conflicting parties – especially Israel – to cease fire as soon as possible.
Expounding on China’s principles and stance, Xi described the current situation in the Middle East as critical, warning that further escalation would bring greater losses to both conflicting parties and the region.
The Chinese president emphasized that protecting civilians’ safety must remain the top priority amid Iran-Israel tensions, calling on the conflicting parties to strictly adhere to international law and resolutely avoid harming innocent civilians.
Dialogue and negotiation are the fundamental way out, Xi pointed out, calling for bringing the Iranian nuclear issue back on track for a political solution through dialogue and negotiation.
He also urged the international community – particularly major countries with significant influence over the parties to the conflict – to make efforts to de-escalate the situation, adding that the UN Security Council should play a greater role in this regard.
China, Xi added, stands ready to continue strengthening communication and coordination with all parties, pooling their efforts, and upholding justice, so as to play a constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East.
Putin said Israel’s attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities is dangerous, stressing that the conflict escalation is not in anyone’s interests, and the issue should be resolved through dialogue and consultation.
Russia is willing to maintain close communication with China and make positive efforts to cool down the situation and maintain regional peace and stability, he noted.
The two heads of state highly appreciated the political mutual trust and high-level strategic cooperation between China and Russia, and agreed to maintain close high-level exchanges, advance cooperation in various fields, and promote further development of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination. –The Daily Mail-CGTN news exchange item
