On Friday, 13 March, in Manama, China’s Special Envoy for Middle East Affairs Zhai Jun met with Bahrain’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abdullatif bin Rashid Al Zayani.
During the meeting, Al Zayani stated that Bahrain has always upheld the values of peace and remains committed to achieving regional peace, stability, development, and prosperity through dialogue and reconciliation. He stressed that no country should be subjected to unjustified attacks. He also called on Iran to heed the appeals of the international community, immediately cease attacks on Gulf Arab states, and ensure the safety and smooth passage of international maritime routes.
Al Zayani highly praised China’s impartial stance on the Middle East situation and welcomed the mediation efforts of China’s special envoy in the region. He also expressed Bahrain’s willingness to work with China to promote an early ceasefire and help restore regional stability and peace.
In response, Zhai Jun said that China has consistently advocated resolving regional issues through dialogue and consultation and firmly opposes the use of force under any circumstances. China believes that the red line of protecting civilians in armed conflicts must never be crossed. Attacks on non-military targets—including energy facilities, economic infrastructure, and people’s livelihoods—should be avoided. The security of international shipping lanes must not be disrupted, and the indiscriminate use of force is unacceptable.
He noted that the current escalation of regional tensions serves no party’s interests. The most urgent priority at present, he said, is to immediately halt military operations and prevent further expansion of the conflict. China attaches great importance to the legitimate security concerns of Bahrain and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Since the outbreak of the conflict, China has also commended Bahrain for its calm, restrained, and responsible approach.
Zhai added that China is willing to maintain close communication with Bahrain and play a constructive role in advancing regional peace and stability.
Source: Wang Haiman-Alim-Zhai, CMG.