Beijing calls for ceasefire and dialogue in Iran crisis

China said it will continue diplomatic engagement with all parties involved in the Middle East conflict as part of efforts to ease tensions and promote a political resolution, the country’s Foreign Ministry announced on March 11.

Speaking at a regular briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said Beijing has consistently called for a ceasefire and negotiations since the outbreak of hostilities.

“From the very first day of this conflict, China has clearly called for a ceasefire and an end to the fighting, for a return to dialogue and negotiations, and for a political solution,” Guo said.

He added that China’s special envoy for Middle East affairs is currently conducting shuttle diplomacy in the region.

According to Guo, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has also been actively engaged in diplomatic mediation regarding the situation in Iran. Wang has recently held additional telephone conversations with foreign ministers from several regional countries in an effort to promote peace, push for a ceasefire and help defuse tensions.

“As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and a sincere friend of Middle East countries, China will not stop its efforts for peace, nor will it stop speaking out for fairness and justice,” Guo said.

By Tamilla Hasanova