Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have warned that further escalation in the Middle East would be “unwise,” as both leaders called for diplomatic solutions to ongoing regional conflicts during high-level talks in Beijing.
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Speaking during the meeting, Xi Jinping said the world is facing the risk of sliding back into a “law of the jungle,” stressing the importance of multilateral cooperation and global stability. He emphasized that dialogue and negotiations are essential to preventing further conflict, particularly in the Middle East.
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday said that the situation of the Gulf region in the Middle East is at a critical juncture between war and peace, and all hostilities must end immediately.
Xi made the remarks when holding talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is… https://t.co/hRj5ezRutb pic.twitter.com/IGpLyFlP0C— Jiemian News (@jiemian_news) May 20, 2026
Putin, on the other hand, described Russia-China relations as being at an “unprecedented level,” noting that both countries should continue supporting each other’s development and strengthen economic cooperation. He said bilateral trade between Moscow and Beijing was growing steadily and highlighted Russia’s role as a reliable energy supplier amid global uncertainty.
The Russian president also stressed the need for a “fair and balanced global governance system,” arguing that Russia and China’s partnership contributes to international stability.
On the situation in the Middle East, Xi Jinping said continued fighting would be harmful for global energy security and international trade. He urged all parties to prioritize dialogue, warning that further escalation would be “irrational and unwise.”
Both leaders agreed that resolving conflicts through negotiations would help stabilize energy supplies and reduce disruptions in global markets. They also reiterated their shared commitment to promoting peace and opposing unilateral actions in international affairs.
During the meeting, Putin extended an invitation to Xi Jinping to visit Russia next year, further underscoring the strengthening diplomatic ties between the two major powers.
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The discussions come at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions globally, with China and Russia positioning themselves as key voices advocating for a multipolar world order and reduced reliance on Western-led institutions.