Amid escalating tensions that have threatened regional stability and global energy security, China has issued a strong call for de-escalation and a renewed push for a political settlement. Speaking at a United Nations Security Council open debate today, China's permanent representative to the UN, Fu Cong, emphasized that the situation stands at a critical juncture.
"China urges all parties to seize this window of peace, exercise utmost restraint, demonstrate maximum sincerity, and remain steadfast in the direction of a political settlement," Fu stated. His remarks highlighted the urgent need to prevent any reversal in ceasefire momentum and to strive for the early restoration of stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region.
Fu reaffirmed that the Palestinian question remains at the heart of the broader Middle East issue and must not be marginalized. He called on all concerned parties, especially Israel, to fully abide by ceasefire agreements to ensure a comprehensive and durable halt to hostilities in Gaza. Furthermore, he stressed Israel's obligation to fulfill international humanitarian law, dismantle barriers to aid, and guarantee humanitarian agencies can operate effectively.
The Chinese envoy also addressed the contentious issue of settlements, labeling them as unacceptable and in violation of international law. "Prolonging the illegal occupation will not make either party feel safer. Rather, it will intensify a vicious cycle," he warned, urging Israel to halt settlement activities and curb settler violence.
Central to Fu's address was a firm endorsement of the two-state solution as the only viable pathway forward. He expressed deep concern over voices within Israel opposing this framework and stated that any unilateral action eroding its foundation must be firmly rejected. "The international community must increase support for Palestine to advance the early establishment of a fully sovereign and independent State of Palestine based on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital," he declared.
In conclusion, Fu reiterated China's commitment to working with the international community to end the suffering of the Palestinian people and achieve a comprehensive, just, and lasting solution to the Palestinian question.
Reference(s):
China calls for efforts to seize 'window of peace' in Mideast
cgtn.com
