China on Thursday called for an immediate end to the conflict in the Gulf and stressed that the safety of regional waterways should not be compromised, as global energy markets face major supply shocks from the ongoing U.S.-Israeli war on Iran.
At a regular news briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the countries involved in the conflict should “immediately cease military operations” to prevent regional instability from further affecting the global economy. Lin added that China is prepared to strengthen coordination and cooperation with Southeast Asian nations to jointly address energy security challenges.
China’s approach comes as it positions itself as a more reliable superpower amid the crisis, while also protecting domestic energy supplies. Earlier this month, Beijing restricted exports of diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, and fertilizers to safeguard its domestic market, which relies heavily on oil and gas refining byproducts.
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, in a phone call with his British counterpart, highlighted that the ongoing Middle East conflict has “direct impact on international energy, finance, trade, and shipping, harming the common interests of all countries.” He emphasized the responsibility of China and the UK, as permanent U.N. Security Council members, to help maintain international peace and security.
Experts suggest that the crisis could present China with opportunities to strengthen its energy partnerships in countries where it had previously faced barriers. Wang Jin, senior fellow at the Beijing Club for International Dialogue, noted that the conflict underscores the strategic value of renewable and nuclear energy, sectors in which China leads globally.
In a related development, Philippine Energy Secretary Sharon Garin met with the Chinese ambassador to discuss energy cooperation, signaling a potential thaw in bilateral relations despite previous maritime disputes in the South China Sea.
China’s proactive diplomacy underscores its dual focus on stabilizing global energy markets and securing reliable supply channels to support its domestic manufacturing and industrial sectors.
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