China’s Xi outlines four-point proposal for Middle East stability

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday outlined a four-point proposal aimed at promoting peace and stability in the Middle East, calling for peaceful coexistence, respect for sovereignty, adherence to international law, and coordinated development alongside security.

Speaking during a meeting in Beijing with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Xi emphasised the need to build a “common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable” regional security framework. He stressed that countries in the Middle East and Gulf must have their sovereignty, territorial integrity and security fully respected, while ensuring protection of personnel and infrastructure.

Xi also underscored the importance of upholding international rule of law to prevent global instability, warning against a regression into power-based disorder. He added that long-term peace requires balancing security with economic development, urging joint efforts to create favourable growth conditions in the region.

His remarks come amid heightened tensions following a recent conflict between the United States and Iran, which escalated rapidly with large-scale military strikes targeting Iranian infrastructure. A fragile ceasefire brokered by Pakistan on April 10 has temporarily halted major hostilities, though key disputes remain unresolved.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump signalled mixed expectations over future negotiations with Tehran, stating the ceasefire is holding while downplaying the urgency of renewed talks.

Separately, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez, in talks with Xi, opposed geopolitical division and called for stronger cooperation between Europe and China, warning against a “new cold war” and disruptions to global trade networks.