China will not stop its diplomatic mediation efforts while the conflict continues, said Zhai Jun, China's special government envoy for the Middle East, on Monday. The Chinese people attach primary importance to peace, and the foundation of China's policy on the Middle East lies in promoting reconciliation and peace, Zhai stated at a press conference. The special envoy recalled that the conflict has already claimed more than 21,000 lives and emphasized that while the flames of war continue to ravage the Middle East, global trade and the economy are under immense pressure. "Once the Pandora's box is opened, it will cause enormous damage. Its prolonged closure would lead to unbearable consequences for all," he declared. Countries in the region recognize that Iran is a neighbor that cannot be displaced; they welcome the statement made by the Iranian side that it would not attack neighboring nations, and call for resolving differences through dialogue and negotiation, the Chinese special envoy specified. Zhai highlighted that countries in the region highly valued China's just stance on the current situation, as well as its consistent diplomatic mediation efforts since the outbreak of the conflict, and expressed hope that China will play a more prominent role in de-escalating the situation.
