China Announces Five Principles to Address Middle East Crisis

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Sunday announced five key principles to address the ongoing Middle East crisis, describing the conflict as an “unwanted confrontation.”

Speaking at a press conference during the annual session of the National People's Congress (NPC), he said China supports an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict. However, he also indicated that Beijing would not abandon Iran despite pressure from the United States.

Wang Yi said China is prepared to play the role of a “responsible major power” in addressing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza Strip. Beijing continues to support the United Nations-backed two-state solution to the Israel–Palestine conflict.

Although Iran is one of China’s major oil suppliers, Beijing is currently trying to maintain economic and diplomatic balance in the region. Any blockade in the Strait of Hormuz would also affect China’s energy supply. At the same time, by sending a special envoy, Beijing is signaling to Tehran that it will not leave Iran isolated under U.S. pressure.

Five Principles Proposed by China

According to Wang Yi, China’s approach to resolving the Middle East crisis is based on five fundamental principles:

1. Respect for national sovereignty
2. Avoiding the misuse of military force
3. Non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries
4. Commitment to political and diplomatic solutions
5. Constructive roles by major powers

United States and Japan Issues

Wang Yi also mentioned that a visit by U.S. President Donald Trump to Beijing is expected later this month. He warned that if dialogue between China and the United States breaks down, misunderstandings could escalate and harm global stability.

Regarding tensions with Japan, he said the improvement of bilateral relations now depends on decisions made in Tokyo. He also stressed that Japan has no right to interfere in the issue of Taiwan.

Global Economy and Trade

Wang Yi noted that China recorded a trade surplus of about $1.2 trillion last year. Criticizing Western policies of “decoupling” from China, he said the country is not only the world’s factory but also a major global market.

He also expressed a positive outlook on expanding strategic cooperation with Russia and Europe in the future.