Beijing: China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi has reiterated the country's call to prevent further casualties in the Middle East conflict and has pledged efforts to mediate a ceasefire. This statement was made during discussions with Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Special Envoy of the President of the United Arab Emirates to China.

According to Anadolu Agency, Wang emphasized the need for strategic mutual trust between China and the UAE, highlighting its importance in promoting peace and stability in the volatile Middle East region. He assured China's support for the UAE's sovereignty and security while condemning attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure. Wang committed to working towards a ceasefire and restoring peace in the region.

Wang reiterated China's stance that the conflict "should not have happened and should not continue," stressing the importance of avoiding further casualties. He expressed China's willingness to maintain high-level exchanges with the Arab side and to deepen development strategy alignments, aiming to elevate the strategic partnership between the two countries.

During the meeting, Khaldoon briefed Wang on the latest developments in the Middle East and praised the high level of Arab-Chinese relations. He expressed the Arab side's readiness to enhance cooperation with China across various sectors including education, culture, energy, and the economy.

The regional situation remains tense, with Israel and the US conducting joint operations against Iran since February 28, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with attacks targeting Israel and US military assets in the region, causing further casualties and infrastructure damage, and disrupting markets and aviation. At least 13 US service members have been killed, with about 200 wounded in the conflict.