Chinese Foreign Minister Advocates for Ceasefire in Gaza during Africa Diplomatic Tour

Amidst growing tensions in the Middle East, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi touched down in Cairo, Egypt, initiating his diplomatic journey across Africa. The tour, spanning from January 13 to January 18, includes significant stops in Egypt, Tunisia, Togo, and Cote d'Ivoire, with plans to bolster cooperative relations and tackle pressing regional issues.

On January 14, Wang met with his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, to discuss shared interests and outline a path forward amidst the escalating conflict in Gaza. Their talks, according to the Egyptian foreign ministry, covered joint cooperation and several regional developments, emphasizing a common viewpoint.

During the discussions, the Chinese diplomat laid out a visionary blueprint for peace, pushing for the commencement of the two-state solution as a means to provide both strategic and humanitarian relief to the area. Wang expressed a collective urgency for international involvement, stating, "I spoke in-depth with Minister Shoukry and we have reached a high degree of consensus."

The dialogues between China and Egypt are set to culminate in a joint statement focusing on a myriad of actions conducive to stability, including an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages and detainees, the abidance of United Nations resolutions, and the creation of platforms for humanitarian aid to empower the Palestinian National Authority in its administration across Palestinian territories.

Minister Shoukry highlighted the gravity of the situation in the Red Sea region, noting the Houthis' assault on maritime lanes as an indicator of potential conflict escalation. With the U.S. military targeting Houthi-controlled sites in Yemen on Saturday, concerns about the wider implications for regional stability and the sanctity of international shipping lanes have come to the fore.

As Wang Yi continues his Africa tour, attention remains fixed on the unfolding events in the Middle East and on the diplomatic efforts unfolding through his engagement with African leaders. The tour epitomizes China's growing role in international affairs and its commitment to fostering peace and cooperation.