On March 4, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan briefed Wang Yi on the regional situation and the UAE’s stance, noting that the UAE is not a party to the war, nor has it participated in the conflict, and thus should not be subject to unlawful attacks. The UAE appreciates that China always upholds an objective and just position, and hopes China will continue to play a significant and positive role in preventing the escalation of regional tensions amid the current grave situation. The UAE will continue to take measures to protect the safety of Chinese personnel and institutions.

Wang Yi reiterated China’s principled position on the current situation in Iran, saying the spillover of the war serves no one’s interests and the ultimate victims can only be the people in the region. The red line of protecting civilians in conflicts must not be crossed, non-military targets such as energy, economy and people’s livelihood should not be attacked, and the safety of waterways should be upheld. China expressed appreciation for the UAE’s efforts to strive for peace even before the war, and the recent Extraordinary Meeting of the Ministerial Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) for its emphasis that dialogue and diplomacy are the only way to overcome the current crisis and maintain regional security. China supports the UAE’s legitimate aspiration for upholding national security, and supports regional countries in continuing to resolve differences through diplomatic means. China will not give up hope for peace and will continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace. The Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on the Middle East Issue will be sent to the region for mediation to help restore peace and stability. China hopes the UAE will continue to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions in the UAE.