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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, on Monday held separate phone conversations with Kuwaiti Foreign Minister Jarrah Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah and Bahraini foreign minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani on the situation in the Middle East and Gulf region, the Xinhua News Agency reported.
During Wang's phone call with Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti foreign minister briefed the Chinese side on the latest regional developments, saying that Kuwait is not a party to the war but has nonetheless been affected by the conflict. Gulf countries, including Kuwait, remain committed to resolving disputes through dialogue but will not give up their legitimate right to self-defense, he said.
Al-Sabah expressed appreciation for China's position and efforts and said that Kuwait is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China to jointly promote the early restoration of regional security and stability. He added that Kuwait attaches great importance to the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions and will continue to ensure their security.
Wang said that China has consistently advocated for resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means, noting that the current war should not have happened and brings no benefit to any party. He emphasized that the use of force against Iran by the US and Israel, without authorization from the United Nations while Iran-US negotiations were still underway, clearly violates international law.
Wang added that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf countries should be fully respected, and any attacks on civilians and non-military targets should be condemned. The most urgent task is to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible, he said, noting that China appreciates Gulf countries' calls for dialogue and negotiations.
During Wang's separate phone call with Al Zayani, the Bahraini foreign minister introduced the regional situation and Bahrain's position, saying Bahrain has always favored peace and should not be subjected to illegal attacks.
Al Zayani expressed appreciation for China's fair position and said Bahrain is willing to work with other Gulf countries and China to strengthen communication and coordination at bilateral and multilateral platforms including the United Nations to promote the early restoration of regional peace and stability. He also said Bahrain will continue to take effective measures to safeguard the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions.
Wang said the situation in the Gulf region has sharply escalated and Bahrain's security has also been affected, which China is deeply concerned about. China's position is consistent and clear: The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected, and attacks on civilians and non-military targets should be condemned.
Wang stressed that the most urgent task is to immediately stop military operations and prevent the war from further spreading. The way out lies in returning to dialogue and negotiations as soon as possible and striving to restore peace. The fundamental solution is for all parties to return to the track of observing international law and the basic norms governing international relations. As a strategic partner of Gulf countries and a responsible major country, China has been actively promoting peace and de-escalation. China's special envoy on Middle East affairs is currently visiting the region and will also travel to Bahrain. China will continue to play a constructive role in safeguarding peace and stability in the Gulf region and hopes the Bahraini side will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country.
Global Times