Experts: Xi's proposal clarifies China's stance on Middle East, pushes for dialogue, security

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday put forward a four-point proposal on promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, with experts saying it clarifies China's stance, addresses the primary concerns of Gulf Arab states, and underscores China's commitment to dialogue and security amid rising regional tensions.

Xi announced the proposal during a meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, in Beijing.

The Chinese president called for peaceful coexistence, urging nations to promote the building of a common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security architecture for the Middle East and the Gulf region. He stressed the importance of respecting national sovereignty, underscoring that the safety of personnel, facilities and institutions in Gulf states should be safeguarded.

He also highlighted the necessity of upholding international law, saying the authority of international rule of law should be upheld to prevent the world from falling back into the law of the jungle. In addition, he underscored the coordination of development and security, suggesting that all parties should work together to create a favorable environment for the development of countries in the Middle East and the Gulf region.

Wang Jin, a researcher at the Institute of Middle East Studies at Northwest University of China, told CGTN that Xi's proposal comes at a critical moment, as China-Gulf relations face uncertainties amid escalating conflict involving the US, Israel and Iran.

"Many countries worry that China's position favors Iran or is strictly non-interventionist. At this moment, it's necessary for China to clearly state its position," Wang said, adding, "Xi's proposals resonate with the concerns of Gulf states, particularly the UAE."

He explained that the proposal outlined by Xi encourages adherence to international norms, rebuilding trust between nations and rejecting military solutions, while promoting cooperation and dialogue.

"This is timely and crucial. It reflects China's commitment to dialogue and cooperation as the primary tools for resolving conflicts in the Gulf region," Wang said, adding China's stance is conducive to de-escalating tensions, restoring trust and supporting the creation of a stable regional order.

Wang Yiwei, director of the Institute of International Affairs at Renmin University of China, described the proposals as highly targeted to the current context.

"Israel and Iran are locked in a zero-sum confrontation, which is extremely dangerous. China's emphasis on peaceful coexistence and cooperation among Gulf states is very meaningful for preventing escalation," he said.

He further noted that respect for national sovereignty is central to regional stability, saying current tensions between the US, Israel and Iran have left Gulf states concerned about violations of their sovereignty. "This makes Xi's emphasis on protecting territorial integrity and personnel safety particularly relevant," Wang Yiwei said.

Regarding international law, he emphasized that China's proposals reinforce a UN-centered system and a rules-based international order. "Many of today's global problems arise from a failure to uphold international law and the UN-based system. China's position stresses that disputes should be resolved through dialogue rather than force," he said.

Overall, Wang Yiwei noted that Xi's principles reflect a modern interpretation of China's longstanding Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence. They also demonstrate the practical implementation of four global initiatives proposed by China.

"These proposals resonate with the expectations of Middle Eastern countries and align with the principles and objectives of the United Nations Charter," he said.