BEIJING, China: China welcomed a delegation of Arab dignitaries and diplomats on Wednesday for a forum aimed at strengthening ties between Beijing and the Arab world. The forum, scheduled to begin on Thursday, seeks to foster a “common voice” on the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas.
In recent years, China has actively sought closer relations with Arab states, including brokering diplomatic breakthroughs such as the detente between Iran and Saudi Arabia. Historically sympathetic to the Palestinian cause, China has advocated for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
The upcoming forum will see the participation of leaders and diplomats from various Arab countries, including Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. Chinese President Xi Jinping is slated to deliver a keynote address, emphasizing the importance of consensus-building between China and Arab nations.
A major focus of the forum will be the conflict between Israel and Hamas, with China calling for an “international peace conference” to address the situation. Analysts suggest that China views this conflict as an opportunity to enhance its reputation in the Arab world, particularly in contrast to perceived US inaction.
Ahead of the forum, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with counterparts from Yemen and Sudan to discuss strengthening solidarity and coordination with Arab nations. Wang also expressed China’s concerns about disruptive attacks on Red Sea shipping by Houthi forces, emphasizing the need to ensure the safety of maritime routes in the region.
