by Kwon Jaehee
Published 08 Mar.2026 12:08(KST)
Wang Yi, Director of the Office of the Central Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China and Minister of Foreign Affairs, stated at a press conference on foreign affairs during the National People's Congress on March 8, 2026, that the war in the Middle East surrounding Iran is "a war that should never have occurred." He called for an immediate ceasefire and a political resolution.
He stressed, "With the Middle East engulfed in the flames of war, this conflict benefits no one," adding, "As history shows, force cannot resolve problems; instead, it only creates new hatred and crises." Wang further presented the key principles for resolving the conflict as respect for national sovereignty, opposition to the abuse of force, non-interference in internal affairs, and political negotiations. He emphasized, "The sovereignty and territorial integrity of Gulf countries must be respected."
Wang also stated, "Being powerful does not always equate to being just," underscoring that the international community must not revert to a law-of-the-jungle approach. He asserted that all countries should return to the negotiating table as soon as possible to resolve conflicts through equal dialogue, and particularly emphasized that major powers should play a constructive role.
Meanwhile, ahead of U.S. President Donald Trump's visit to China, Wang reiterated the importance of U.S.-China relations. He pointed out, "If the two countries do not engage with each other, it will lead to misunderstandings and misjudgments, which could escalate into conflict." Wang stated, "China and the United States, as major powers, cannot change each other, but they can change the way they manage their relationship." He added, "The relationship should be developed in a stable manner based on mutual respect, peaceful coexistence, cooperation, and mutual benefit."
He emphasized that communication between the two leaders is a core strategy for maintaining stability in U.S.-China relations. "This year is a crucial period for U.S.-China relations," he said, adding that senior-level exchanges should be utilized to coordinate differences and prepare for problem-solving. Wang predicted, "China will always approach with an open and proactive attitude, and if the United States moves in the same direction, 2026 will become a symbolic year for the healthy development of U.S.-China relations."
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