China calls for new regional security framework in Middle East
China’s special envoy for Middle East affairs called for a new regional security framework based on common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security, urging efforts to achieve lasting stability in the region during meetings with senior Iranian officials in Tehran.
According to a statement published on the Chinese Foreign Ministry’s website on Monday, Zhai Jun met Ali Bagheri Kani, deputy secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, Majid Takht-Ravanchi, deputy foreign minister for political affairs, and Mohammad Ali Beik, assistant foreign minister and director general for Persian Gulf affairs, during a visit to Tehran on Sunday. The meetings covered bilateral relations between Tehran and Beijing as well as the latest developments in the Middle East, IRNA reported on Monday.
In separate meetings with the Iranian officials, Zhai highlighted the longstanding friendship between Iran and China, saying Beijing was ready to seize the opportunity presented by the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of their comprehensive strategic partnership to advance bilateral ties.
Addressing the continued military conflict in the Middle East, Zhai said military means could not resolve problems and stressed that the sovereignty and security of all countries must be respected.
“Relevant parties should choose the path of peace and, with a rational and pragmatic approach, focus on political solutions to resolve differences so that stability and development can return to the region as soon as possible,” he said.
Zhai also referred to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s initiatives and views on establishing peace and stability in the Middle East, saying Beijing supported the development of good-unneighborly relations among regional countries.
He called on countries to adhere to an approach centered on common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security to build a new regional security framework and secure long-term stability across the Middle East.