China, Russia call for ceasefire as Strait of Hormuz concerns grow

Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday that the fundamental way to resolve navigation issues in the Strait of Hormuz is to achieve a ceasefire as soon as possible, as he held a phone call with Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov to discuss the worsening situation in the Middle East.

As permanent members of the United Nations Security Council, China and Russia should uphold fairness on matters of principle, adopt an objective and balanced approach, and work to gain greater understanding and support from the international community, he said.

China has consistently advocated resolving international and regional hotspot issues through dialogue and negotiation, Wang said.

He added that China stands ready to continue working with Russia at the UN Security Council, to maintain timely communication on major issues, and make efforts to help cool tensions and safeguard regional peace and stability as well as common security worldwide.

Lavrov said Russia is highly concerned about the continued escalation in the Middle East.

Referring to the ongoing conflict and the situation in the Strait of Hormuz, he said Russia believes military action must cease immediately and that the parties should return to political and diplomatic means to address the root causes of the conflict.

He added that the UN Security Council should play a constructive role in this regard, and said Russia is willing to maintain close communication and coordination with China and continue to make efforts for a ceasefire.