Chinese Foreign Minister: Red line on civilian protection must not be crossed

Beijing (ANTARA) - Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi on Wednesday (4/3) said that the red line regarding civilian protection in conflicts must not be crossed. Wang, who is also a member of the Politburo of the Communist Party of China (CPC), conveyed the statement in a telephone conversation with Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Abdullah told Wang about the regional situation and the UAE’s position, saying that his country is not part of the war, is not participating in the current conflict, and should not be the target of illegal attacks. He expressed appreciation for China’s objective and neutral stance, and added that the UAE hopes China will continue to play an active and important role in the current serious situation to prevent further escalation of regional tensions. The UAE will continue to take steps to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country, Abdullah said. Meanwhile, Wang reiterated China’s principles regarding the current situation in Iran, stating that the spillover effects of war do not benefit any side and that people in the region will bear the suffering. Wang stressed that non-military targets related to energy, economy, and people’s livelihoods must not be attacked, and that the security of shipping routes must be maintained. Wang said that the UAE has sought to realise peace even before the conflict erupted, and the recent Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) foreign ministers’ meeting emphasised that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way to resolve the crisis and safeguard regional security, something China appreciates. China supports the UAE’s legitimate demands to safeguard its national security and backs regional countries in their ongoing efforts to resolve disputes through diplomatic channels, Wang said. China will not abandon its hope for peace and will continue to play a constructive role, Wang added, noting that China will dispatch a special envoy to the Middle East to mediate and help restore peace and stability in the region. Wang also expressed hope that the UAE will continue to guarantee the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the country.