China calls for immediate ceasefire in Middle East

Foreign Minister Wang Yi has called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East, saying the international community broadly agrees that the fighting must stop and urging all sides to press the parties involved to hit the brakes on military operations to prevent further escalation.

Wang made the remarks during a phone call with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty on Thursday.

He warned that prolonging the conflict would only bring greater suffering to people in the region, deal a heavy blow to regional economies and further undermine international and regional security and stability.

Wang said China and Egypt, as responsible countries, both advocate resolving regional issues through dialogue and consultation and oppose the frequent use of force.

China is willing to maintain communication and coordination with regional countries, including Egypt, and to continue to play a constructive role in promoting peace, he added.

Abdelatty said Egypt is deeply concerned about the ongoing conflict and appreciates China's balanced and fair position as well as the role it has played. Egypt is ready to maintain close communication with China and work together to help ease tensions as soon as possible, he added.