In a significant diplomatic move, China and France have jointly called for an immediate and sustainable ceasefire in the Middle East, urging all parties to protect civilians and facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
On May 7, 2024, President Xi Jinping of the People’s Republic of China met with French President Emmanuel Macron during a state visit to France. The two leaders issued a joint statement addressing the escalating crisis in the Middle East, emphasizing the urgency of restoring peace and stability in the region.
“As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and France are committed to finding constructive solutions based on international law,” the statement read. Both countries condemned violations of international humanitarian law and acts of violence against civilians, stressing the imperative of protecting civilians in Gaza.
The joint statement strongly opposed any offensive on Rafah, highlighting that such actions could lead to a larger humanitarian disaster and the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians. The two leaders called for the immediate and unconditional release of all hostages and urged respect for international law regarding detainees.
Emphasizing the need for renewed peace efforts, China and France called for a decisive relaunch of the political process to implement a two-state solution. “Israel and Palestine should live side by side in peace and security, with both having Jerusalem as their capital,” the leaders affirmed, underscoring the establishment of a viable, independent, and sovereign State of Palestine based on the 1967 borders.
The statement also expressed deep concern over the risk of regional escalation and called on all parties to exercise restraint. Both nations are working with international partners to deescalate tensions and prevent further turbulence in the Middle East.
Addressing broader security concerns, the two heads of state reaffirmed their commitment to promoting a political and diplomatic solution to the Iranian nuclear issue, highlighting the importance of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action concluded in 2015. They also stressed the significance of safeguarding freedom of navigation in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
In light of the upcoming 2024 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games, China and France called for the observance of the Olympic Truce, urging all parties to cease hostilities during the Games as an opportunity to work toward lasting conflict resolutions in full respect of international law.
This joint statement reflects the collaborative efforts of China and France to address pressing international security challenges and underscores their shared commitment to peace and stability in the Middle East.
Reference(s):
Full text of China-France joint statement on Middle East situation
cgtn.com
