China urges related parties in Gulf region to settle disputes with dialogue

BEIJING -- China called on relevant parties in the Gulf region to settle differences through dialogue and consultation, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Friday.

The US government accused Iran of launching attacks on two oil carriers in the Sea of Oman, which Iran denied. Media reported the Gulf region was experiencing unprecedented tensions with increased possibilities of war.

Spokesperson Geng Shuang told a news briefing that nobody wants to see a war in the Gulf region of the Middle East, as it is not in anyone's interest.

He said China is deeply concerned about the rising tension and hopes all sides could resolve differences through dialogue and consultation and jointly safeguard regional peace, stability and development.

"We hope all parties concerned will remain calm, exercise restraint and avoid further escalating tensions, and hope all sides can jointly safeguard navigational safety in relevant waters," Geng said.

China maintains cooperation with countries in the Gulf region, including cooperation on energy, he said, adding that the cooperation is conducted under the framework of international laws and China would continue to safeguard its energy security and the lawful rights of its companies.

"China has consistently opposed unilateral sanctions and the so-called long-arm jurisdiction," Geng said.

He stressed that China, as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, always keeps in touch with countries in the Middle East, and has made contributions to maintaining peace and stability in the region.