A ceasefire is of paramount importance for resolving the conflict in the Middle East, and the use of force is not the right way to resolve international disputes. This was stated today by Chinese President Xi Jinping in a telephone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, quoted by the state news agency Xinhua, BTA reports.
Xi called on all parties to the conflict - and in particular Israel - to cease fire as soon as possible. He stressed that the safety of civilians must be an absolute priority and urged participants to strictly abide by international law, refraining from actions that endanger innocent people.
“Dialogue and negotiations are the basis for finding a solution“, the Chinese leader stressed, and called on the international community - especially major powers with influence over the conflicting parties - to take active steps to contain the tension.
Xi reaffirmed China's commitment to continue communication and coordination with all parties, promoting efforts for justice and stability in the region. He expressed Beijing's readiness to play a constructive role in the process of restoring peace in the Middle East.
The Chinese president also called on the UN Security Council to have a more active and effective role in the conflict, DPA reported.
China and Iran maintain close cooperation, with Beijing being a leading importer of Iranian crude oil. There are also allegations that China is providing Tehran with military-grade raw materials. The two countries also hold joint naval exercises, another sign of their deepening strategic partnership.