Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the prompt start of peace talks between conflicting parties [1, 2].
The demand signals China's attempt to position itself as a primary diplomatic mediator in the Middle East while countering U.S.-led military influence in the region [1, 2].
Wang Yi made these statements in mid-March 2026 during a diplomatic tour of Africa [1, 2]. The Chinese foreign minister emphasized the need to halt civilian suffering and promote a comprehensive political solution to the crisis [1, 2].
"China calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a political solution to the conflict," Wang Yi said [1].
China's diplomatic push has found support among its allies. During discussions with Pakistani officials, Wang Yi said that he hopes peace talks can start as soon as possible [2]. This sentiment was echoed by Pakistani Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi, who said that Pakistan stands with China in urging the parties to engage in peace talks [2].
These calls for diplomacy coincide with China's criticism of unilateral military actions. Wang Yi used his tour of Africa to challenge what Beijing describes as U.S.-led strikes in the region, specifically referencing actions involving Houthi forces in Yemen [1].
By aligning with Pakistan and African nations, China is attempting to build a multilateral coalition that favors diplomatic negotiation over military intervention [1, 2].
“"China calls for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and a political solution to the conflict,"”
China is leveraging its diplomatic presence in Africa and its partnership with Pakistan to challenge the U.S. role as the primary arbiter of Middle East security. By advocating for a political solution and criticizing unilateral military strikes, Beijing seeks to present itself as a champion of international law and multilateralism to gain favor with the Global South.
