Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Monday that the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all states must be respected and that all attacks on civilians and non-military targets must be unequivocally condemned.

The Chinese diplomatic chief, who is also a member of the Politburo of the CPC Central Committee, made the remarks during a telephone conversation with the foreign minister Bahrain Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.

Al Zayani briefed Wang on the current situation in the region and Bahrain's position. He stressed that Bahrain has long been a country seeking peace and should not be subjected to illegal attacks.

The Bahraini side also expressed its appreciation and thanks China for her righteous attitude. It also declared its willingness to work with the Gulf States and China to strengthen communication and coordination at bilateral and multilateral levels, including on land United Nations, with the aim of achieving regional peace and stability as soon as possible.

The Minister also said that Bahrain will continue to take strong measures to ensure the security of Chinese citizens and institutions on its territory.

In his response, Wang Yi stressed that the situation in the Gulf region was rapidly escalating and that Bahrain's security had also been undermined, which was of great concern to China.

According to him, China's position has long been consistent and clear: it must respect the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of all states and condemn attacks on civilians and non-military targets.

The highest priority, he said, is the immediate cessation of military operations to prevent the further spread of conflict.

The path to a solution, according to Wang, is to return as soon as possible to dialogue and negotiations that can help restore peace. A lasting solution, he said, lies in strict adherence to international law and the basic norms of international relations.

As a strategic partner of the Gulf countries and a responsible power, Wang said China is actively trying to promote peace and stop conflicts.

The Chinese government's Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs is currently travelling through the region and will also visit Bahrain as part of his mission. Wang said China will continue to play a constructive role in safeguarding peace and stability in the Gulf region.

The Minister also expressed his hope that the Bahraini side would continue to ensure the security of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country.

CMG