rki.news | Source: Anadolu
MANILA, July 24: China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) called for dialogue, diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of conflicts, urging full implementation of the US-Iran ceasefire and an immediate end to hostilities across the Middle East.
The appeal came in a joint statement issued after a meeting of the foreign ministers of China and the 11-member ASEAN bloc in Manila on Wednesday. The statement was released Friday.
The ministers expressed deep concern over the rapidly evolving situation in the Middle East, warning that the conflict threatens civilian lives, regional and global peace, economic stability, trade, investment, energy supplies and food security.
They reaffirmed the importance of resolving disputes through dialogue and diplomacy in accordance with the UN Charter and international law, urging all parties to remain committed to multilateral cooperation and negotiations for a peaceful and lasting settlement.
The statement also called on the United States and Iran to ensure the full and effective implementation of the ceasefire by adhering to its terms. It urged all sides to exercise restraint, protect civilians and civilian infrastructure, facilitate humanitarian assistance and avoid actions that could escalate tensions.
The ministers also stressed the importance of ensuring the safe, uninterrupted passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz in accordance with the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.