Chinese, Bahraini foreign ministers hold phone talks on Gulf tensions

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held a phone call on Thursday with Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani, during which both sides exchanged views on tensions in the Persian Gulf and called for efforts to ensure security in the Strait of Hormuz.

Zayani outlined the latest regional developments and said Gulf countries face serious security challenges, with navigation in the Strait of Hormuz disrupted.

He added that Bahrain is willing to work through the United Nations Security Council to address the issue and seeks closer coordination with China.

Wang said China opposes aggression and supports peace, adding that China and Pakistan had recently proposed a five-point initiative aimed at restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and the wider Middle East.

The proposal includes calls for an end to attacks on civilians and non-military targets, and ensuring safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.

He said the international community broadly supports a ceasefire, and that actions by the UN Security Council should help de-escalate tensions and promote a return to dialogue, rather than backing illegal acts of war.

As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a responsible country, China stands ready to work with Bahrain to help end the fighting, restore peace and safeguard the legitimate interests of Global South countries, particularly smaller nations, Wang added.