On April 2, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with the rotating chair of the Gulf Cooperation Council and Bahraini Foreign Minister Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani upon request.

Al Zayani briefed on the latest developments in the Middle East situation and Bahrain’s position, stating that Gulf countries are currently facing serious security challenges and navigation through the Strait of Hormuz has been disrupted. Bahrain is willing to play a role through the UN Security Council to address the issue of strait passage. Bahrain hopes to strengthen communication and coordination with China.

Wang Yi expounded China’s principled position of opposing aggression and advocating peace. He stated that China and Pakistan recently jointly released the Five-Point Initiative of China and Pakistan For Restoring Peace and Stability in the Gulf and Middle East Region, which includes calling for an end to attacks on civilians and nonmilitary targets, ensuring the security of the Strait of Hormuz, and restoring normal passage. A ceasefire and cessation of hostilities is the shared call of the international community. The actions of the UN Security Council should help de-escalate the situation, stop the fighting and resume talks, rather than endorse illegal acts of war or fuel the flames. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council and a responsible major country, China stands ready to work with Bahrain to promote the cessation of hostilities, restore peace, achieve lasting regional stability, and safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of members of the Global South, especially small and medium-sized countries.