China urges restraint in Gulf, calls for preserving ceasefire

CHINA, July 14 (YPA) – China’s Foreign Ministry on Tuesday urged all parties involved in the Gulf conflict to exercise restraint and preserve the ceasefire “achieved through painstaking efforts,” expressing deep concern over the renewed military tensions in the region.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, responding to a related question during a daily press briefing, called on the parties to avoid a return to war and, above all, prevent the conflict from expanding and causing further civilian casualties, according to China’s Xinhua News Agency.

Lin said that “respecting the legitimate rights and interests of countries bordering the Strait of Hormuz, and restoring normal and safe navigation through the waterway as soon as possible, is what the international community hopes to see.”

He added that all relevant parties should work in the same direction and strive to reach an appropriate settlement.