Beijing diplomacy: Wang Yi urges Middle East parties to choose talks over arms

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi told an Iranian official on Monday that Middle East parties should prioritize political solutions over military action. The remarks came during a meeting in Beijing with Ali Bagheri Kani, the deputy secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council. Wang stated that dialogue and negotiation are the primary methods for resolving conflicts in the region.

Wang also expressed China's support for Iran in maintaining its sovereignty and security. These comments align with recent diplomatic efforts by Beijing to increase its influence in the Middle East. The foreign minister emphasized the need for stability through conversation rather than force.

Earlier on Monday, President Xi Jinping spoke with Omani leader Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said. Xi argued that the Middle East and the Gulf region should not serve as a battleground for great-power rivalry. This statement sets the tone for China's current diplomatic push in the area.

Following that call, China and Oman issued a joint statement. The Omani government said it supports Chinese peace proposals for the Middle East. Muscat also said it looks forward to a greater role by Beijing in achieving lasting stability in the region. This marks a formal endorsement of Beijing's diplomatic initiatives by a key regional actor.

China announced that its special envoy to the Middle East will visit Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia this month. This tour will take place later in November. The envoy's itinerary includes meetings in three major regional capitals. Beijing is actively pursuing a larger diplomatic role in the Middle East through these direct channels.