In a significant diplomatic initiative, Chinese President Xi Jinping highlighted the severe humanitarian toll of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East during a meeting with Arab leaders in Beijing. Stressing the “tremendous sufferings” brought on by the nearly eight-month-long Israeli war in Gaza, Xi called for an international peace conference to address the crisis. He reiterated China’s support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state and endorsed a comprehensive approach to achieving peace.
“Justice (in the Middle East) should not be absent forever.”
Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for a “broad-based” peace conference to resolve the conflict between Israel and the Palestinians.
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— Al Arabiya English (@AlArabiya_Eng) May 30, 2024
The Beijing meetings, attended by top diplomats and leaders from Arab nations, occur amidst intensifying military actions in Gaza, particularly in the southern city of Rafah, where the humanitarian situation continues to deteriorate. During the discussions, a joint statement focusing on the Palestinian issue was agreed upon, although specifics of the statement were not immediately disclosed.
China’s position in this conflict aligns it with the Arab world and the broader Global South, presenting a contrast to the United States, which has historically been a key ally of Israel in the region. This alignment is part of a broader strategy by Beijing to propose an alternative global security framework that emphasizes fairness and mutual respect over alliance-based models favored by the U.S.
JUST IN: 🇨🇳 Chinese President Xi Jinping calls for a Middle East peace conference to resolve the conflict between Israel and Palestine. pic.twitter.com/sveh0kZVas
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This diplomatic gathering, which drew participation from 22 Arab states, underscored a shared commitment to resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized the collective call from the meeting to support the Palestinian people in reclaiming their legitimate national rights and to seek a swift and just resolution to the conflict.
Since the escalation of hostilities following a significant attack by Hamas on October 7, which led to substantial Israeli and Palestinian casualties, China has been vocal in its advocacy for a ceasefire and a two-state solution, recognizing the state of Palestine as early as 1988. Beijing’s involvement has also included diplomatic efforts such as hosting reconciliation talks between Fatah and Hamas, aiming to foster unity among Palestinian factions.
Key points from Chinese President Xi Jinping's address at the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict:
🔹China wants to work with Arab states for world peace and stability.
🔹War should not continue indefinitely. Justice should not be absent… pic.twitter.com/LlPVIikQO1
— Yawen Xu (@YawenXu17) May 30, 2024
Observers note that while China has been proactive in its diplomatic overtures and in calling for a ceasefire, its actual influence in the Middle East remains limited. Moreover, China’s response to the regional repercussions of the conflict has been cautious, notably in its decision not to deploy additional naval assets to secure Red Sea shipping lanes recently targeted by Iran-backed groups.
In response to the crisis, Xi announced a significant increase in Chinese aid for Gaza, pledging nearly $70 million towards humanitarian efforts and post-conflict reconstruction. This commitment adds to previous financial support for the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees.
The Beijing summit marks the continuation of heightened diplomatic engagement between China and Arab states, a relationship that was prominently featured during a joint summit in Saudi Arabia in 2022. Looking forward, Xi announced plans for the second China-Arab States Summit, scheduled for 2026, signaling ongoing commitment to strengthening ties and addressing regional challenges through dialogue and cooperation.
Major Points
- Chinese President Xi Jinping called for an international peace conference and reiterated support for an independent Palestinian state during a meeting with Arab leaders in Beijing.
- The meeting, attended by diplomats from 22 Arab states, focused on the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza, especially in the city of Rafah.
- China aligned with the Arab world and the Global South, advocating for a ceasefire and criticizing the current U.S.-led global security framework.
- The conference concluded with a joint statement advocating for the Palestinian people’s rights and a resolution to the conflict, although specific details of the statement were not disclosed.
- Xi announced additional Chinese aid for Gaza, totaling nearly $70 million for humanitarian efforts and reconstruction, emphasizing China’s ongoing commitment to supporting Middle East stability.
Conner T – Reprinted with permission of Whatfinger News
