Wang Yi calls for immediate halt of military operations in Middle East

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that the urgent priority in the current Middle East situation is to immediately halt military operations and prevent further spillover of the conflict.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks during phone talks with Omani Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr bin Hamad Al Busaidi.

Wang noted the spillover of war does not serve the fundamental and long-term interests of the Gulf countries.

Al Busaidi said that under Oman's mediation, the Iran-U.S. negotiations had achieved unprecedented progress. However, the United States and Israel abandoned the outcomes already reached and launched a war, which is regrettable, he said.  

If the conflict continues, it will lead to more casualties and property losses, Al Busaidi said and called on all parties to work together to promote an early ceasefire and put an end to the fighting.

Al Busaidi pointed out that as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China has consistently followed the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and remains a reliable and positive force.  

At this sensitive moment and under complex circumstances, Oman expects China to play an important role, the Omani foreign minister said.

He also vowed to make every effort to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in Oman.

Wang Yi said Oman has actively mediated to advance the Iran-U.S. negotiations and made significant efforts to safeguard regional peace, which China appreciates.  

Against the backdrop of progress in the talks, the United States and Israel deliberately provoked a war against Iran, an act that clearly violates the purposes and principles of the UN Charter, the Chinese foreign minister pointed out.

China urges all parties to make joint efforts toward this end and supports Oman in staying committed to its original aspiration of promoting peace, he noted.

China also stands ready to play a constructive role, including upholding justice, seeking peace and stopping the war on the platform of the UN Security Council, Wang added.

Wang reiterated that China attaches importance to the legitimate concerns of Gulf countries and supports them in safeguarding their sovereignty and national security.  

He expressed hope that Gulf countries will strengthen independence and self-reliance, oppose external interference, develop good-neighborly relations and enhance solidarity and cooperation, so as to truly take their future and destiny into their own hands.