Wang Yi: Blockade of Strait of Hormuz not in common interests

China's top diplomat Wang Yi on Monday said that blocking the Strait of Hormuz would not serve the common interests of the international community, stressing that a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire through political and diplomatic means is the fundamental way forward to resolve regional tensions.

Wang, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and director of the Office of the Central Commission for Foreign Affairs, made the remarks in talks with Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, special envoy of the president of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to China, who is accompanying Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on a visit to China.

Wang outlined China's principled position on the current situation in the Middle East, stating that China fully understands the legitimate security concerns of Gulf Arab states and supports the United Arab Emirates in safeguarding its national sovereignty, security and legitimate rights and interests.

Noting China has consistently worked to promote peace and de-escalation, Wang said China stands ready to work with the international community, including the UAE, to help restore peace and stability in the Middle East as soon as possible.

Wang further said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, China-UAE relations have maintained strong momentum.

He described Crown Prince Khaled's visit as an important milestone in bilateral relations, expressing confidence that the trip would be a success through joint efforts and would further enhance strategic mutual trust and deepen practical cooperation between the two countries, which is especially significant amid the current complex regional and international situation.

Khaldoun thanked China for its warm and thoughtful arrangements for the Crown Prince's visit, describing China as a "second home" and a uniquely friendly comprehensive strategic partner.

He expressed confidence that the visit would strongly promote cooperation across various fields and deliver greater benefits to both peoples.

The UAE side also appreciated China's constructive efforts to ease regional tensions and expressed hope that China would continue to play a more significant role in promoting peace in the Middle East, he added.