14 April,2026 03:43 PM IST | Beijing | mid-day online correspondent
Xi Jinping. Pic/AFP
China has unveiled a four-point proposal aimed at promoting long-term peace and stability in the Middle East, with Xi Jinping emphasising principles such as sovereignty, peaceful coexistence, and balanced development.
The proposal was detailed by Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Tuesday, who said the framework reflects China's approach to addressing ongoing regional tensions through dialogue, cooperation, and adherence to international norms.
According to Mao, the first pillar of the proposal stresses the importance of peaceful coexistence among nations in the Middle East, particularly Gulf countries that share geographical proximity and intertwined interests.
She noted that regional nations should work towards improving mutual ties and building a comprehensive and cooperative security architecture. Strengthening trust and collaboration, she added, is essential to ensuring long-term peace and stability in the Gulf region.
The second point of the proposal highlights the need to respect national sovereignty and territorial integrity. China has underlined that sovereignty is fundamental for all nations, particularly developing countries, as it ensures their survival and growth.
The proposal calls on all parties to safeguard the security of states, along with the safety of their people, infrastructure, and institutions. It reiterates that violations of sovereignty should not be tolerated under any circumstances.
China's third point focuses on adherence to international law and the global order based on the framework of the United Nations. Mao said that all countries should abide by the purposes and principles outlined in the UN Charter.
The proposal urges nations to support a rules-based international system, reinforcing global governance mechanisms and promoting stability through established legal frameworks.
The fourth component of the proposal stresses the interdependence between development and security. According to China, sustainable peace can only be achieved when economic growth and security considerations are addressed simultaneously.
Mao said that countries in the region should work together to create a stable environment conducive to development. China has also expressed its willingness to share opportunities arising from its modernization efforts and collaborate with regional partners to enhance both development and security outcomes.
The four-point initiative was put forward by Xi during a meeting in Beijing with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates.
The discussion comes amid ongoing geopolitical challenges in the Middle East, with China positioning itself as a proponent of diplomatic engagement and multilateral cooperation to resolve conflicts and foster regional stability.
