In a landmark move mediated by China, 14 Palestinian factions, including leaders from rival groups Fatah and Hamas, signed the Beijing Declaration on Tuesday. This historic agreement signals a commitment to end years of division and strengthen Palestinian unity.
The factions, long at odds, have agreed to reconcile at a critical time when the death toll in Gaza continues to rise. Internal unity is essential for envisioning a postwar future and realizing a “two-state solution,” paving the way for lasting peace in the region.
The Middle East has often been referred to as a “powder keg” due to complex religious, ethnic, and territorial disputes, compounded by external interventions. In this challenging landscape, China’s successful mediation demonstrates its responsibility as a major global power dedicated to peace and stability.
International observers have praised China’s role. Saudi Arabia’s Al Arabiya TV described China’s diplomatic effort as “remarkable” and “admirable.” Lebanon’s Elnashra news website noted that the dialogue in Beijing showcases China’s recognized influence on the global stage.
Unlike certain Western powers that have been criticized for using the Israel-Palestine conflict for geopolitical gains, China positions itself on the side of peace and human conscience, prioritizing people’s lives over political calculations. The Chinese government has actively fostered platforms for dialogue and consultation among Palestinian factions.
This is not China’s first initiative in facilitating reconciliation. In April, representatives from Fatah and Hamas were invited to Beijing for candid talks on advancing intra-Palestinian harmony. While no agreement was reached then, the dialogue set the foundation for the recent Beijing Declaration.
“China can make a significant contribution to the peace process, given its vision for resolving conflicts in the world based on finding fair solutions,” said Samer Khair Ahmed, a Jordanian writer and expert on Arab-China relations. “The Palestinian issue needs this Chinese contribution, which achieves balance and opens up real opportunities for establishing peace,” he added.
China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that on the question of Palestine, China stands on the side of peace, justice, international law, shared aspirations of the majority of countries, and human conscience.
China’s trusted mediation model has proven effective in addressing conflicts beyond its borders. Last year, China brokered a détente between Iran and Saudi Arabia, leading to the restoration of diplomatic relations after years of hostility.
As China continues to play a constructive role in international diplomacy, its efforts to unite Palestinian factions underscore its commitment to promoting peace and stability in the Middle East and around the world.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
