On 18 March 2026, Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang attended the 8th China-UK Economic and Trade Forum and delivered a keynote speech. 

In his speech, Ambassador Zheng noted that the world is undergoing increasing transformation and volatility. China is deeply concerned about the recent tensions in the Middle East. As China has repeatedly stated, this is a war that should not have happened and a war that does no one any good. Without UN authorisation, the US and Israel attacked Iran in the process of ongoing US-Iran negotiation, in clear violation of international law. The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all countries must be respected. China does not agree with attacks on Gulf countries and condemns all indiscriminate attacks against civilians and non-military targets. The pressing priority is to stop military operations immediately, prevent the further spread of the conflict, and return to the path of a political settlement through negotiation. Recently, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has spoken with his counterparts of several countries on Iran and the broader Middle East and put forward a five-point principle for resolving the issues. Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue has also conducted shuttle diplomacy in the region. China will continue to strengthen communication with relevant parties, including the parties to the conflict, and play a constructive role in de-escalating tensions and restoring peace.