Xi calls for de-escalation of tensions in Middle East

President Xi Jinping expressed deep concern on Tuesday over Israel's military actions against Iran, urging all parties to make efforts to de-escalate the conflict as soon as possible and avoid further fueling of tensions.

China opposes any acts that infringe upon the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of other countries, Xi said, when meeting with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev on the sidelines of the second China-Central Asia Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan.

Israel's attacks on Iran have led to a sudden escalation of tensions in the Middle East, Xi said, stressing that military conflicts are not the solution to problems, and the escalation of regional situations is not in the common interests of the international community.

China is willing to work with various parties to play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in the Middle East, he said.

Israel and Iran traded strikes for a fifth day on Tuesday, with civilians in flashpoint areas facing waves of attacks. It is reported that at least 224 people have been killed in Iran since the hostilities began, and in Israel, 24 people have been killed.

Since the conflict broke out, China has been in communication with Iran, Israel and other parties to seek a ceasefire and de-escalation.

Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said on Tuesday that the most urgent priority is to bring about a ceasefire, take effective measures to avoid further escalation and prevent the region from spiraling into greater turmoil, and return to the track of seeking a political settlement through dialogue and negotiation.

He said China welcomes the joint statement released by foreign ministers of 21 Arab and Islamic countries, and commends the effort of relevant countries in promoting de-escalation.

Guo also noted that as soon as the conflict broke out, the Foreign Ministry and Chinese embassies and consulates in Iran and Israel activated the consular emergency response mechanism.

"We are providing active assistance to Chinese nationals evacuating from the region. Some of them have already been safely relocated to neighboring countries," the spokesman said.

zhoujin@chinadaily.com.cn