China backs Türkiye's 'constructive role' in Middle East talks

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi expressed Beijing's support Wednesday for Türkiye's "constructive role" in advancing Middle East peace talks, reinforcing Ankara's diplomatic position as the region grapples with a widening war. The remarks came during a phone call with Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan.

Support for mediation

Wang voiced support for Türkiye in "playing a constructive role in promoting the resumption of negotiations," according to China's state-run Xinhua news agency. He also called on countries in the region to "remain calm" and "respond rationally to the current situation from a long-term perspective based on fundamental interests." The Chinese top diplomat emphasized that "the right and wrong of the conflict in the Middle East are clear, and the international community should adopt an objective and impartial position."

Call for de-escalation

Wang noted that the conflict is "rapidly spilling over and spreading across the region," warning of further instability. He stressed that the top priority is to "actively promote peace talks, seize opportunities for peace, and work toward de-escalation." The conversation between the two top diplomats highlights China's recognition of Türkiye's growing role as a potential mediator in the crisis.

Conflict context

The diplomatic engagement comes as the US-Israeli offensive against Iran, launched Feb. 28, has killed more than 1,340 people including former Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Iran has retaliated with sustained drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, causing casualties and infrastructure damage while disrupting global markets and aviation.