On April 7, 2026, Special Envoy Zhai Jun of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue met with French Ambassador to China Bertrand Lortholary at the latter’s request. The two sides had an in-depth exchange of views on the current tense situation in the Middle East.

Bertrand Lortholary stated that France is deeply concerned about the escalating situation in the Middle East and the negative impact of the conflict on the global economy. The five-point initiative of China and Pakistan for restoring peace and stability in the Gulf and Middle East region largely aligns with France’s position. France stands ready to maintain coordination with China to promote the restoration of peace and stability in the region.

Zhai Jun stated that the ongoing conflict is escalating and spilling over, endangering regional peace and stability and impacting the global economy and energy security. As permanent members of the UN Security Council, China and France should uphold fairness and justice, work together to promote peace and stop the war, cool down regional tensions, and support the parties concerned in returning to the right track of dialogue and negotiation.