On April 2, 2026, Member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and Foreign Minister Wang Yi had a phone call with Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud upon request.

Faisal briefed on the latest developments in the Middle East situation, stating that the conflict involving Iran has severely affected countries both in the region and worldwide. Saudi Arabia values China’s important role in international affairs, cherishes the high-level strategic cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China, and hopes to strengthen communication and coordination with China on platforms such as the United Nations to jointly promote de-escalation of the conflict and bring the hostilities to an end.

Wang Yi stated that the conflict involving Iran has lasted for over a month, causing significant casualties and losses and undermining the security and stability of Gulf states including Saudi Arabia, which China views with concern. 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 safeguarding the sovereignty and security of Gulf states, stopping attacks on civilians and nonmilitary targets, and ensuring the security of shipping lanes. The disruption of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is a spillover effect of this conflict. As long as the fighting continues, the Strait cannot be secure. The priority now is to achieve an early ceasefire. The actions of the UN Security Council should avoid escalating confrontation and must not legitimize unauthorized military operations, as doing so would lead to serious consequences, with small and medium-sized countries bearing the brunt. China appreciates Saudi Arabia’s efforts to promote peace and end the conflict, and stands ready to work with Saudi Arabia to contribute to the early restoration of regional peace.