Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the recent escalation of tensions in the Middle East and called on all parties involved to take immediate steps to de-escalate the situation and prevent it from deteriorating further. Meeting in Astana on the sidelines of the second China-Middle Asia Summit, President Xi and Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev exchanged views on recent developments in the Middle East. Xi expressed deep concern over the escalation of tensions caused by Israel's military operation against Iran.

He stressed that China opposes any actions that undermine the sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of other countries and considers military conflict as a solution. Military confrontation is not the way to resolve disputes and continued escalation serves no one's interest, the Chinese president pointed out. Xi Jinping stressed that the international community should work together to calm tensions in the region. "All sides should exercise restraint, avoid further escalation and help return the region to peace and stability as soon as possible," he said.

Xi Jinping reaffirmed China's commitment to work with all parties and play a constructive role in restoring peace and stability in the Middle East.

CMG