BEIJING: China will send a special envoy to the Middle East to support mediation efforts amid rising regional tensions, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced on Wednesday.
According to Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China, Wang held separate telephone conversations with the foreign ministers of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, discussing the evolving security situation in the Middle East and ongoing regional conflicts.
During the talks, Wang praised Saudi Arabia for its restraint and its stance in favour of resolving disputes through peaceful means. He stressed that the protection of civilians must remain a “red line” that should not be crossed during the current tensions.
The Chinese foreign minister also warned that targeting energy facilities and other non-military infrastructure could be dangerous and risk further destabilising the region.
He emphasised that maritime routes vital for international trade and global energy supplies must remain secure, adding that Beijing was closely monitoring developments affecting regional shipping lanes.
Wang said China was ready to play a constructive role in easing tensions and promoting dialogue to resolve disputes through diplomatic channels.