China-Arab Cooperation Forum Addresses Gaza and Strengthens Ties
Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the longstanding relationship between China and the Arab world, citing their 'familiarity' during the China-Arab Cooperation Forum held in Beijing. The forum, which called for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, also underscored the need for a sustainable settlement of the Palestinian issue based on a two-state solution and the opposition to the forced displacement of the Palestinian people.
The Tenth Ministerial Conference of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum adopted several key documents, including the 'Beijing Declaration' and a joint statement on the Palestinian issue. These documents reflect the deep concern of both China and the Arab countries over the prolonged conflict in Gaza and its resulting humanitarian crisis. They also reaffirm commitments to ceasefire, humanitarian aid delivery, and full membership for Palestine in the United Nations.
Beijing Declaration
The Beijing Declaration notes the significant progress and consensus achieved since the first China-Arab Summit. It highlights mutual support on core interests and cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, human rights, artificial intelligence, and climate change. This declaration sets the stage for enhanced bilateral and multilateral collaborations in politics, economy, trade, and cultural exchanges over the next two years.
In his opening remarks, Xi Jinping called for a 'broad-based' international peace conference to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized that the ongoing war and humanitarian suffering in Gaza must end. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi echoed these sentiments, urging the international community to ensure the immediate and sustainable delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza.
Economic Cooperation
Xi Jinping lauded the historical friendship between China and Arab countries, rooted in ancient trade routes like the Silk Road. He pledged continued strategic cooperation in oil and gas, and modern energy technology. As part of the Belt and Road Initiative, 21 Arab countries signed cooperation agreements with Beijing, reinforcing economic ties.
Leaders from Egypt, the UAE, Bahrain, and Tunisia, along with other high-ranking officials, participated in the forum to discuss methods of strengthening relations. The Forum, established in 2004, aims to foster dialogue, cooperation, and support for peace and development. China's recent diplomatic engagements, including reconciliation talks between Hamas and Fatah in Beijing, highlight its growing influence in the Middle East.
Humanitarian Assistance and Future Prospects
China has committed nearly $70 million to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and support post-conflict reconstruction. This is in addition to previous contributions and emergency aid. Xi Jinping's push for a ceasefire and a more comprehensive peace conference aligns with China's broader goals of promoting a new era of China-Arab relations, characterized by mutual respect, equity, and justice. Despite geopolitical tensions, including with the United States, China's stance underscores its desire to be a key player in achieving lasting peace in the region.
- The China-Arab Cooperation Forum's emphasis on core interests like counter-terrorism, human rights, artificial intelligence, and climate change demonstrates a broad agenda extending beyond immediate geopolitical conflicts.
- China's engagement in the Middle East, such as brokering talks between Palestinian factions and sponsoring rapprochement agreements, showcases its diplomatic strategy aimed at asserting influence and promoting stability.
- Xi Jinping's call for an international peace conference and additional humanitarian aid to Gaza illustrates China's proactive role in addressing global conflicts while enhancing its relations with the Arab world.
