Mr. Wang Yi, member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China and Chinese Foreign Minister, and Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit held discussions at the League of Arab States on 14 January. The discussions yielded the following consensus on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict:
First: The imperative for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire was underscored, emphasising the full and effective implementation of relevant resolutions from both the UN Security Council and the UN General Assembly concerning the situation in Gaza and the broader Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The protection of civilians through concrete measures, cessation of all violence targeting civilians, and avoidance of actions violating international law and humanitarian principles were deemed essential. The consensus rejected the forced displacement of Palestinian civilians, advocated for the swift release of detainees, called for the establishment of a humanitarian coordination mechanism, and emphasised the expedited, secure, and unimpeded delivery of aid to the Gaza Strip.
Second: The international community was urged to actively intervene to de-escalate the situation and swiftly achieve a ceasefire. Influential nations, in particular, were called upon to play a constructive role objectively and fairly. The UN Security Council was urged to heed the calls from Arab and Islamic countries, as well as others opposing the ongoing Israeli military actions in Gaza. The Council was implored to take its responsibilities for international peace and security seriously and to enact binding measures in response.
Third: The consensus highlighted the paramount importance of any future arrangement for Palestine adhering to the principle of "Palestine governed by the Palestinians." It underscored the need to actively pursue internal Palestinian reconciliation, with strong backing from both Chinese and Arab entities for a comprehensive national dialogue that includes all Palestinian factions. The objective is to foster unity and strength, particularly in supporting the Palestinian Authority and enhancing its role in the forthcoming stages.
Fourth: There was a reaffirmation that the "two-state solution" remains the foundational framework for any future arrangements concerning the destiny of Palestinians in both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank (including East Jerusalem). This approach is designed to encapsulate the Palestinians' right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state.
Fifth: The consensus emphasised the imperative of earnest and effective efforts towards finding a comprehensive, just, and enduring resolution to the Palestinian cause. This involves advocating for Palestine's full membership in the United Nations and supporting the establishment of an independent, fully sovereign State of Palestine, delineated by the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem serving as its capital. This aligns with relevant United Nations resolutions and the principles of "land for peace" and the "Arab Peace Initiative".
Sixth: Expressing profound concern over the recent escalation in the Red Sea, both parties underscored the paramount importance of upholding Yemen's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Ensuring the safety of international commercial shipping lines in the Red Sea was deemed crucial. They emphasised the need to avert risks that pose threats to the security of sea lanes, deeming it a priority for global security and peace. The consensus called on all relevant parties to contribute to calming the situation, particularly by expeditiously ending the conflict in the Gaza Strip to prevent further regional repercussions. A sincere commitment to preserving peace and stability in the region was emphasised.
Seventh: A joint call was made for the convening of a comprehensive international peace conference at the earliest opportunity. This conference should be conducted in a manner that reflects international credibility, aiming to devise a binding road map for implementing the two-state solution within a specific timetable. Simultaneously, efforts were urged to resume peace negotiations between Palestine and Israel on this basis, ultimately fostering peaceful coexistence between the two states and ensuring security and peace for all the peoples in the region.
Eighth: The Chinese side expressed appreciation for the significant role played by the Arab side in promoting calm in the region and preventing a comprehensive humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. In return, the Arab side highly commended China's efforts to bring about a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and support the just cause of the Palestinian people. The Arab side also acknowledged and praised the "paper expressing the position of the People's Republic of China on the settlement of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict." Both parties expressed a commitment to continuing communication and coordination, working tirelessly to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, and addressing the serious humanitarian crisis affecting over two million Palestinians. Their shared goal remains the cessation of occupation and the pursuit of a comprehensive, just, and enduring solution to the Palestinian cause.
