Question: The ongoing conflict involving Iran has adversely affected regional security and the safety of key shipping lanes. The international community widely hopes that the tensions can be de-escalated as soon as possible. In this context, China put forward a five-point initiative to help ease the situation. What position and direction of efforts China wants to convey to the international community?
Embassy Spokesperson: The Iran conflict is one of the most pressing challenges facing the international community. Recent developments have caused significant casualties and a serious humanitarian crisis, and have had negative impacts on regional peace and stability, the international energy market and the security of key shipping lanes.
On 31 March, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs Wang Yi and Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Pakistan Mohammad Ishaq Dar put forward a five-point initiative on easing the situation and restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East:
First, immediate cessation of hostilities and utmost effort to prevent the conflict from spreading. Second, start of peace talks as soon as possible. The sovereignty, territorial integrity, national independence and security of Iran and the Gulf states should be safeguarded. China and Pakistan support the relevant parties in initiating talks, with all sides committing to peaceful resolution of disputes and refraining from the use or the threat of force during peace talks. Third, the security of non-military targets. Parties to the conflict should fully comply with International Humanitarian Law and stop attacks on key infrastructure, including energy, desalination and power facilities, and peaceful nuclear facilities such as nuclear power plants. Fourth, the security of shipping lanes. China and Pakistan call on all parties to ensure the safety of ships and crew stranded in the Strait of Hormuz, facilitate the early and safe passage of civilian and commercial vessels, and restore normal navigation through the Strait as soon as possible. Fifth, the primacy of the UN Charter. All parties should practise true multilateralism, jointly strengthen the important role of the UN, and support the conclusion of an agreement on establishing a comprehensive peace framework and achieving lasting peace based on the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and international law.
This initiative is grounded in the practical need to promote a ceasefire and restore the dialogue process. It offers a systematic approach to this end, and reflects China’s consistent position of promoting peace talks and a political settlement of disputes.
China remains committed to resolving differences through dialogue and cooperation rather than confrontation. China will continue to strengthen communication and coordination with relevant parties, and play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions, preventing the conflict from spreading, and safeguarding security and stability in the region.
