China's Xi and Wang urge Middle East dialogue as Iran crisis unfolds

· Politics · China

Chinese President Xi Jinping said the Middle East Gulf region should not become an arena for great-power rivalry and geopolitical conflict, adding that China is willing to work with Arab nations to achieve lasting peace. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in separate meetings in Beijing with Iranian and Saudi national security officials, said all parties should focus on a political solution rather than resorting to armed conflict. The comments position Beijing as a diplomatic broker as Washington and Tehran pursue talks to avert a wider war.

Why it matters：China is positioning itself as a broker in the Middle East, a role that could expand its influence at a moment when US attention is divided.

Key points

  • Xi said the Gulf should not be an arena for great-power rivalry.
  • Wang met Iranian and Saudi national security officials in Beijing.
  • China says it is willing to work with Arab nations for lasting peace.

Sources (original reporting)

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