President,

I thank Assistant Secretary-General Khaled Khiari and Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit for their briefings.

The League of Arab States is a vital platform for Arab countries to foster unity and strengthen cooperation, and it plays a unique role in regional and international affairs. Over the years, the United Nations and the League have continuously deepened their partnership, committed to maintaining stability in the Middle East and upholding the purposes and principles of the UN Charter. China supports the UN in furthering its cooperation with the League in accordance with the spirit of Chapter VIII of the Charter to jointly promote regional peace and development. I will make three points.

First, we must adhere to a political solution for lasting peace and stability. The Middle East is the region with the highest concentration of global hotspots, and has long suffered from the ravages of war and the hardship of displacement. The history in the Middle East has told us that the use of force is not the answer, and that a political solution is the only viable way forward. Arab nations possess unique advantages in addressing issues in the Middle East, both in terms of geographical proximity and deep historical and religious ties, as well as the wisdom of peace rooted in their ancient civilization. The international community should support the League and Arab countries in actively engaging in conflict prevention and mediation. Relevant UN entities, the Secretary-General’s special envoys and special representatives should strengthen communication and coordination with Arab countries for better synergy. The Security Council must take seriously the views of the League and support the resolution of regional issues through regional mechanisms.

Second, we must focus on development and revitalization and advocate for international cooperation. The Middle East serves as a geopolitical hub connecting Asia, Africa, and Europe. It is rich in resources and holds immense potential. The UN should strengthen cooperation with Arab countries, promote economic diversification and transformation, support sustainable development, and help the Middle East become a key engine of global economic growth. As an important part of the Global South, Arab countries should be supported in playing a greater role in international affairs, jointly addressing global challenges, upholding and practicing multilateralism, and advancing the development of a more just and equitable global governance system.

Third, we must oppose external interference and strengthen strategic autonomy. The Middle East has long been mired in turbulence due not only to its complex historical background, but also to external powers pursuing geopolitical rivalry. The Middle East belongs to its people. It is not an arena for major power competition. The international community should fully respect the independent choices of the people of the Middle East, take seriously the legitimate concerns of regional countries, and support Arab nations in resolving longstanding and traditional differences, strengthening unity and cooperation, and exploring development paths suited to their national conditions, so that they can firmly hold their future and their destiny in their own hands.

President,

Tensions in the Middle East are escalating, and the conflict is rapidly spreading across the region. The rights and wrongs of the situation are very clear, and the international community should maintain an objective and impartial position. This is a war that should never have occurred. Its continuation will only result in more casualties and unnecessary losses. The most urgent priority is to bring military operations to an immediate end, so as to prevent further escalation and spillovers. All parties should actively promote reconciliation and dialogue, seize the opportunity for peace, and work together to bring the war to an end.

The Palestinian question has always been at the heart of the Middle East issue. The two-State solution remains the only viable path toward resolving this question. Any alternative arrangements or newly established mechanisms must adhere to the principles of Palestinians governing Palestine, and should promote, instead of undermine, the two-State solution. China welcomes the efforts made by the League and Arab countries to advance the resolution of the Palestinian question, and will continue to firmly support the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights as well as their early realization of independent statehood.

President,

Relations between China and Arab countries have a long history, spanning East and West along both the land and maritime Silk Roads for more than 1,000 years. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Arab countries. Over the past seven decades, China and Arab countries have stood shoulder to shoulder through hardships in the struggle for national liberation, pursued win-win cooperation amid the tide of economic globalization, and upheld principles of justice in a challenging international landscape, together writing a remarkable chapter of East-West connectivity, mutual learning, and mutual support. This year, the second China-Arab States summit will be held in China. China stands ready to work with Arab countries to take this opportunity to deepen strategic mutual trust, strengthen mutual support, share development opportunities, enhance international cooperation, advance the building of a China-Arab community with a shared future, and make greater contributions to peace and development in the Middle East.

Thank you, President.