Amid escalating tensions in the Red Sea and an unfolding crisis in Yemen, China's Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Sun Lei, has called on all parties to ease hostilities and resume political dialogue. Recent U.S. and British air strikes on Yemen, combined with cross-attacks between the Houthis and Israel, have led to heavy casualties and significant damage to critical infrastructure.
In a recent UN Security Council briefing, Sun Lei welcomed a ceasefire agreement reached between the United States and the Houthis, and he commended Oman's diplomatic efforts in facilitating the deal. He stressed that calm and restraint are essential to ensure the safety of commercial vessels and to protect secure shipping lanes in the Red Sea.
Highlighting the complex nature of the Yemeni conflict, Sun Lei emphasized that a sustainable political solution is the only way to restore peace. He urged all parties in Yemen to prioritize dialogue and negotiation, in order to promote a Yemeni-led and inclusive process aimed at reconciliation and economic reconstruction.
The call for calm comes at a time when humanitarian needs are growing. Sun Lei pointed to challenges such as insufficient funding, security risks, and the adverse impacts of major policies affecting the region. He called on the international community to boost support for humanitarian efforts and demanded that civilian infrastructure must remain off-limits during the conflict.
Beyond Yemen, Sun Lei expressed deep concerns about renewed fighting in Gaza and continued blockades, warning that such actions may further destabilize the wider region. In a tone that echoes the timeless call to “keep calm and carry on,” his remarks remind us that dialogue and mutual respect are vital for overcoming even the most challenging crises. ✌️
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China calls for calm in Red Sea, political resolution in Yemen
cgtn.com
