Wang Yi urges regional countries to resolve disputes through diplomatic means in phone talks with UAE FM

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Wednesday that China supports Middle East countries in their continued efforts to resolve disputes through diplomatic means.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks in a phone conversation with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, deputy prime minister and foreign minister of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Reiterating China's principled stance on the current situation in Iran, Wang said the spillover effects of war are not in the interest of any party, and only the people of the region will suffer.

The red line on protecting civilians in conflicts must not be crossed, he said, adding that non-military targets such as energy, economy, and people's livelihoods should not be attacked, and the safety of waterways should be protected.

Wang said the UAE side has been working for peace even before the war, and the extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers of the Gulf Cooperation Council states recently emphasized that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way to overcome the current crisis and maintain regional security, stressing that China appreciates this.

China will not give up hope for peace and will continue to play a constructive role in this regard, Wang said, adding that the country will send its special envoy on the Middle East issue to regional countries to conduct mediation efforts, aiming to push for a return to peace and stability.

Abdullah introduced the current regional situation and the UAE's position, stating that the UAE is not a party to the war, has not participated in this conflict, and should not be subjected to illegal attacks.

The UAE side appreciates China's consistent adherence to an objective and impartial stance and expects China to continue playing a positive and important role in the current severe situation to prevent the escalation of tensions, he said, adding that the UAE will continue to take measures to safeguard the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.