Xi Jinping Holds Phone Call with Putin... "Israel Should Agree to Ceasefire Soon"

Xi and Putin Emphasize Dialogue
on the Iranian Nuclear Issue
and Call for Regional Stability

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin on the afternoon of June 19, during which they exchanged views on the situation in the Middle East.

According to reports from China's state-run Xinhua News Agency and China Central Television (CCTV), President Putin stated, "Israel's attack on Iran's nuclear facilities is extremely dangerous, and escalation of the conflict does not serve the interests of any party." He emphasized, "The Iranian nuclear issue must be resolved through dialogue and negotiation."

He continued, "The parties involved in the conflict must ensure the safety of citizens from third countries," and added, "Russia hopes to maintain close communication with China, actively work to ease tensions, and help maintain regional peace and stability."

President Xi remarked, "It has once again been demonstrated that the world is entering a new period of turbulence and transformation," and warned, "If the conflict escalates further, not only the parties directly involved but also other countries in the region will suffer significant damage."

President Xi stated that the parties engaged in armed conflict, especially Israel, should agree to a ceasefire as soon as possible, that the safety of civilians must be the top priority, and that a fundamental solution requires dialogue and negotiation, making the efforts of the international community indispensable.

He added, "China wishes to continue communication with all countries and play a constructive role in restoring peace in the Middle East," and noted, "China highly values the political trust and high-level strategic cooperation between China and Russia."