Beijing, China. Chinese President Xi Jinping met UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan on April 14, outlining a four-point plan for peace and stability in the Middle East and calling for deeper bilateral cooperation.
Meeting and participants
The talks were held at the Great Hall of the People during the Crown Prince’s official visit to China. Foreign Minister Wang Yi was also present.
China-UAE cooperation
Xi described the UAE as China’s comprehensive strategic partner and said both sides should work toward a partnership that was more solid, resilient and dynamic. He called for continued high-level exchanges, stronger strategic mutual trust and deeper cooperation in energy, investment, trade, and science and technology, as well as greater progress in education, civil aviation and tourism. Xi also proposed enhanced coordination at multilateral forums including the United Nations and BRICS.
Four principles for Middle East peace and stability
Xi set out four principles he said should guide efforts to maintain peace and stability in the Middle East. The first was peaceful co-existence, calling for support for Gulf states in improving their ties and for building a shared regional security architecture.
The second was respect for national sovereignty, which he described as a foundation that must not be violated, adding that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Gulf states should be earnestly respected.
The third was upholding international rule of law, rejecting what he called selective application and reaffirming the UN-centred international system.
The fourth was a balanced approach to development and security, with Xi saying China was ready to share with Gulf countries the opportunities arising from Chinese modernisation. Xi said China stood ready to continue playing a constructive role in promoting a political settlement in the Middle East.
UAE response
The Crown Prince said the China-UAE relationship was long-standing and built on deep roots, and that the UAE was committed to implementing the common understandings reached between the two heads of state. He said the UAE commended China’s responsible and constructive role in international affairs and its efforts on promoting a political settlement of the crisis in the Middle East.
The Crown Prince added that the UAE was committed to working with China to facilitate a ceasefire, restore peace and stability in the region, maintain international shipping security and prevent further impact on the global economy and energy security. He also pledged to protect the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the UAE.
What do you think the China-UAE discussions could mean for efforts to restore peace and stability in the Middle East?