China to send special envoy to Middle East amid regional tensions

China announced it will send a special envoy to the Middle East help de-escalate rising tensions, following a phone conversation between Wang Yi, China’s Foreign Minister, and Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud, Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, on the evening of March 4.

According to a statement on the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, the Saudi minister briefed Wang on the current situation in the region, highlighting that Saudi Arabia seeks to avoid a full-scale war, is exercising restraint, but maintains the right to self-defence. He also expressed readiness to strengthen coordination with China to promote peace and stability.

Wang Yi stressed that China condemns attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure and does not want the conflict to expand. He praised Saudi Arabia’s restraint and willingness to pursue a peaceful resolution. China has offered to act as a mediator and will send a special representative to the region, urging all parties to halt military actions and return to negotiations to prevent further escalation.