China’s Xi Jinping Calls for New Middle East Security System, Backs Palestinian Cause

CAIRO: Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on Middle Eastern countries to establish a new regional security framework and take greater responsibility for determining their own future without external interference.

According to Chinese state media, Xi made the remarks during high-level talks with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi in Cairo.

Xi stressed the need to oppose bullying, double standards and the use of force in the Middle East. He said regional countries should work together to build a security system based on mutual respect, cooperation and shared responsibility.

Xi Urges Greater Focus on Palestine

The Chinese president said a comprehensive approach was needed to achieve common security in the Middle East.

He described the Palestinian issue as a central part of the region’s conflicts, stressing that it should not be ignored or pushed aside.

Xi also supported a stronger role for the United Nations in resolving regional disputes and called on external powers to abandon double standards while ensuring that international laws and principles are applied consistently.

He said people in the region should take ownership of their own affairs and that Middle Eastern countries should develop good-neighbourly relations while establishing a new regional security structure.

Four-Point Proposal for Regional Security

Xi also presented a four-point approach for building a new security framework in the Middle East.

He called on regional countries to make greater use of their own internal drivers for security and development.

The Chinese president also stressed the need for a coordinated and comprehensive approach to regional security challenges.

He further called for stronger economic and development foundations for regional stability, supported by increased international communication and cooperation.

Strait of Hormuz and Global Trade

Against the backdrop of rising tensions in the Middle East and the crisis surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, Xi also highlighted the importance of protecting international maritime routes.

He said China was ready to work with countries in the region to help ensure the safety of international shipping routes.

The ongoing tensions around the Strait of Hormuz have raised concerns for global energy markets and the transportation of oil and gas.

Disruptions to shipping through the strategic waterway have also increased concerns over international trade and energy security.

China and Egypt Expand Cooperation

Xi’s current visit to Egypt is his first visit to the country in a decade and includes efforts to further expand economic, diplomatic and defence cooperation between Beijing and Cairo.

China and Egypt have strengthened cooperation in recent years in areas including infrastructure, energy, manufacturing, transportation and technology.

Egypt holds major strategic importance because of its location along the Red Sea and the Suez Canal, one of the world’s key international trade routes.

China and Egypt established diplomatic relations in 1956, while their bilateral relationship was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2014.