Beijing, May 15 (SANA) China on Friday called for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire in the Middle East and urged the reopening of international maritime routes amid ongoing regional tensions.
According to Agence France-Presse, the Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement issued on the sidelines of talks in Beijing between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump that maritime routes should be reopened in response to calls from the international community.
The ministry said a permanent ceasefire was necessary to help restore peace and stability in the Gulf region and the wider Middle East.
Chinese officials also stressed that “there is no justification for the continuation of war in the Middle East,” adding that discussions between Beijing and Washington addressed current regional developments and international navigation security.
The ministry said China was prepared to contribute to efforts aimed at safeguarding global shipping routes.
In a related development, Iran’s naval forces announced coordination with Beijing to allow Chinese vessels to transit through the strategic Strait of Hormuz, which has faced navigation restrictions since late February following escalating military tensions in the region.
The Gulf region has witnessed heightened tensions and restrictions affecting Iranian ports and shipping activity, contributing to disruptions along one of the world’s most important energy transit corridors.
Although a ceasefire took effect on April 8, reports of repeated violations have continued.
kA.RK
