Chinese FM calls for early ceasefire during phone call with Saudi counterpart

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Thursday held a phone call with his Saudi counterpart, Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, calling for an early ceasefire as the conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran continues to escalate and destabilize the Middle East.

Faisal briefed Wang on the latest developments, noting that the ongoing conflict has had far-reaching repercussions for both the region and the broader international community.

He said Saudi Arabia attaches great importance to China's role in global affairs and values the high-level strategic partnership between the two countries. He expressed hope to step up communication and coordination with China on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations in a joint effort to de-escalate tensions and bring the conflict to an end.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the conflict has dragged on for over a month, causing heavy casualties and extensive damage, while posing growing risks to the security and stability of Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia.

He said that China is following the situation closely with deep concern, noting that China and Pakistan recently put forward a five-point initiative on restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East, covering respect for the sovereignty and security of regional states, a halt to attacks on civilians and non-military targets, and the safeguarding of maritime routes.

He added that tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are a spillover from the ongoing conflict, warning that continued fighting will make it difficult to ensure stability in the vital waterway. The immediate priority, he stressed, is to secure a ceasefire as soon as possible.

Wang also underscored that actions by the United Nations Security Council should avoid further escalation and must not legitimize unauthorized military operations, cautioning that such moves could set dangerous precedents with serious consequences, particularly for small and medium-sized countries.

He commended Saudi Arabia's efforts to promote de-escalation and said China stands ready to work with Saudi Arabia to help restore peace and stability in the region at an early date.