Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning reiterated Beijing's call for de-escalation in the Middle East during a press briefing on Tuesday, February 24, 2026. The remarks came amid growing concerns over U.S.-Iran relations and their potential impact on regional stability.
"China is closely following the relevant developments and hopes all parties will exercise restraint," Mao stated, emphasizing that dialogue remains the only viable path to resolve differences. "The escalation of tensions in the Middle East serves no one's interests."
The comments reflect Beijing's consistent advocacy for multilateral diplomacy in conflict resolution, particularly in energy-rich regions critical to global markets. Analysts suggest China's stance aligns with its broader efforts to stabilize trade routes and energy supplies amid ongoing economic recovery efforts across Asia.
This development comes as several APEC members prepare for upcoming discussions on regional security frameworks. While not directly referencing specific nations, Mao's statement underscores China's role as a proponent of peaceful dispute resolution in international affairs.
