Manzar Naqvi
KARACHI: Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday put forward a comprehensive four-point proposal aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Middle East during a meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Beijing, according to Xinhua News Agency.
The proposal, described as a balanced framework for addressing regional challenges, emphasizes adherence to peaceful coexistence, respect for national sovereignty, upholding international rule of law, and ensuring coordination between development and security.
During the meeting, President Xi stressed that the Middle East stands at a critical juncture, where dialogue and cooperation must prevail over confrontation and conflict. He underscored that peaceful coexistence remains essential for resolving longstanding disputes and fostering mutual trust among regional countries.
Highlighting the importance of sovereignty, the Chinese leader reiterated that all nations should respect each other’s territorial integrity and refrain from interference in internal affairs. He noted that sustainable peace cannot be achieved without allowing countries to independently determine their political and economic paths.
Xi further emphasized the need to uphold international law, calling for a rules-based approach to regional and global issues. He warned that selective application of laws and unilateral actions could undermine stability and exacerbate tensions in an already volatile region.
On the economic front, the Chinese president highlighted the close link between development and security, stating that long-term peace in the Middle East depends on economic growth, infrastructure development, and improved living standards. He encouraged enhanced cooperation in trade, investment, and connectivity to address the root causes of instability.
According to Xinhua, Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed China’s constructive role in promoting peace and stability, appreciating Beijing’s balanced and development-oriented approach toward the region. He expressed support for strengthened cooperation between the United Arab Emirates and China, particularly in areas of economic development and regional security.
Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening bilateral ties and enhancing coordination on regional and international issues. The meeting also highlighted the growing importance of China’s engagement in the Middle East, as Beijing continues to position itself as a key diplomatic and economic partner in the region.
Analysts view China’s four-point proposal as part of its broader effort to expand its diplomatic footprint while advocating a non-interventionist and development-driven model of conflict resolution. The initiative comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing conflicts and geopolitical rivalries underscoring the urgent need for a sustainable peace framework.
The proposal is expected to contribute to ongoing international discussions on regional stability, with many observers noting that its emphasis on dialogue, legal norms, and economic cooperation aligns with the aspirations of countries seeking long-term peace and development.
As global attention remains focused on the Middle East, China’s initiative adds a new dimension to diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions and promoting a more stable and cooperative regional order.
