China s Middle East envoy in Saudi Arabia to mediate Iran war

China is calling for an immediate halt to military actions and tensions in the Middle East. This message was conveyed by Zhai Jun, the Chinese government’s special envoy for Middle Eastern affairs, during his meeting with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in Saudi Arabia. Zhai also met with Jassim Mohammed Al-Budaiwi, the secretary-general of the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf (GCC) in Riyadh on the same day. Faisal expressed that the Middle East is facing an unprecedented crisis, with the conflict spreading to Gulf nations, including Saudi Arabia. This situation poses a serious threat to regional stability and impacts global energy supplies and maritime safety. Saudi Arabia understands the risks of escalating conflict and has shown great restraint. The Saudi government values China’s ongoing commitment to fairness and justice and hopes for China’s continued efforts in promoting a ceasefire and ending hostilities to avoid worsening the situation. Zhai expressed deep concern regarding the rising tensions in the region. He emphasized that the principles outlined in the UN Charter and the basic norms of international relations must be respected. He condemned any attacks on innocent civilians and non-military targets, stating that promoting peace and halting hostilities is essential for resolving the current issues. As a significant country dedicated to fairness and justice, and a trusted partner of Saudi Arabia, China aims to play a constructive role. Zhai expressed readiness to work with Saudi Arabia to engage all parties and make continuous efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Gulf region. During his meeting with Al-Budaiwi, Zhai reiterated the importance of de-escalation. He urged all parties to cease fire, stop hostilities, prevent further tensions, and return to negotiations as quickly as possible. Al-Budaiwi acknowledged that the rising tensions in the Gulf region threaten global security and stability, benefiting no one. The GCC appreciates China’s proactive steps toward peace and is open to enhancing communication and coordination with China to help ease the situation. Zhai noted that China values the GCC ministerial meeting, especially the extraordinary meeting of foreign ministers, which stressed that dialogue and diplomacy are the only effective solutions for the current crisis and maintaining regional stability. China will continue to play a constructive role, collaborating with the GCC and Gulf nations to promote ceasefire, de-escalation, and reduce tensions. According to Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, Zhai was appointed as the special envoy on Middle Eastern issues to assist in de-escalating the tense situation. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi mentioned at a press conference that the situation in Iran is a key issue in the current global landscape, highlighting China’s objective and impartial stance on this matter.