Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi has said that there’s a need for urgent international action during a meeting with officials from Arab and Muslim-majority nations in Beijing. The two-day visit includes representatives from Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt, the Palestinian National Authority, and Indonesia.

Wang Yi stated, “The international community must act urgently, taking effective measures to prevent this tragedy from spreading. China firmly stands with justice and fairness in this conflict,” reiterating China’s call for an immediate ceasefire. The delegation, which is expected to tour several world capitals, echoed strong calls for an end to the conflict.

Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud said, “The message is clear: the war must stop immediately, we must move to a ceasefire immediately, and relief materials and aid must enter immediately.” The visiting ministers expressed their willingness to cooperate with China and other responsible countries to address the severity of the situation.

The gathering in Beijing coincides with ongoing negotiations for a possible deal to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas and a potential pause in fighting. Sources suggest progress in talks mediated by Qatar, involving the United States and Israel.

China’s involvement in the Israel-Hamas conflict marks a heightened effort to play a role in global peacemaking. Beijing has dispatched a peace envoy for a multi-country tour of the region and actively advocated for an immediate ceasefire at the United Nations, where China currently holds the rotating presidency.

Despite differences with the United States, China has been a vocal supporter of a ceasefire and has criticized Israel’s actions, calling for the prevention of a humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Saudi Arabia commended the recent UN Security Council resolution, which China played a leading role in, calling for the immediate release of hostages and extended humanitarian corridors in Gaza.

China’s diplomatic efforts extend beyond the Middle East, with the country’s special envoy engaging in talks in Turkey, and Bahrain, and discussions with representatives from Singapore, the US, and Europe. Notably absent from the envoy’s itinerary are stops in Israel, Palestinian-controlled territories, or Iran.