China has expressed "deep concern" about the rising tensions in the Middle East and called for an immediate cessation of hostilities between Israel and Iran. This was stated by President Xi Jinping on Tuesday, in his first public comment on the conflict that began late last week, reports “Reuters”, reports News.bg.
Speaking in Astana, Kazakhstan, during a summit with five Central Asian countries, Xi stressed that China opposes any actions that violate the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of other countries.
“All parties should work to de-escalate as soon as possible and prevent further deterioration of the situation,“ Xi was quoted as saying by state broadcaster CCTV. He added that Beijing was ready to play a constructive role in efforts to restore peace and stability in the region.
At the same time, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said that it had begun evacuating Chinese citizens from Israel and Iran. Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said China was in constant contact with the governments in Tehran and Tel Aviv, as well as other interested parties, to promote a ceasefire. "We call on all countries, especially those with influence over Israel, to shoulder their responsibilities and immediately take action to de-escalate tensions," Guo said, without naming specific countries. The Chinese embassies in Tel Aviv and Tehran issued emergency notices advising people to leave the two countries. The embassy in Israel warned that airspace remained closed and a state of emergency had been extended until June 30. Chinese citizens were urged to use land routes via Jordan. Similarly, the embassy in Iran warned of possible border closures and recommended alternative routes to Turkey, Armenia and Turkmenistan.