China urges for Peace Conference amid Gaza Crisis

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has advocated for an immediate Israeli-Palestinian peace conference, accompanied by a structured timetable for the implementation of a two-state solution. This call comes amidst the escalating Gaza conflict and the emergence of the Red Sea as a new focal point of tension.
Following discussions with Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry in Cairo over the weekend, Wang emphasized the imperative for the international community to attentively consider the legitimate concerns prevailing in the Middle East.
The remarks were reported by the state news agency Xinhua on Monday.
Wang said, “China calls for the convening of a larger-scale, more authoritative and more effective international peace conference, the formulation of a specific timetable and road map for the implementation of the ‘two-state solution’, and support for the prompt resumption of Israel-Palestinian peace talks.”
Last week, in response to Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, the United States and Britain launched strikes in Yemen. The Houthis have justified their attacks as a demonstration of support for Palestinians and Hamas in Gaza.
These Red Sea incidents have led to commercial ships taking longer and costlier routes around Africa, raising concerns about inflation and disruptions in the supply chain. This situation is also bringing the Gaza crisis into closer proximity to China’s investments in the Suez Canal east of Cairo.
While China refrains from direct involvement in military conflicts, it asserts a commitment to increasing its “international influence, appeal, and power” through diplomatic means.
Wang reported that President Xi Jinping engaged in “in-depth communication” with the leaders of Saudi Arabia and Iran to encourage these Middle East powers to set aside historical grievances.
Wang is currently on a diplomatic tour through Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and the Ivory Coast until Thursday.
In discussions with the Secretary-General of the Arab League on the Gaza conflict, Wang expressed concerns about the situation in the Red Sea, as reported by Xinhua.
In a joint statement, the two diplomats highlighted the need for influential countries, especially, to play an objective, impartial, and constructive role in addressing these issues.