China calls for immediate ceasefire in Middle East: FM

BEIJING, March 8 (Xinhua) -- China calls for an immediate stop to military operations in the Middle East to prevent further escalation and avoid the spillover of the conflict, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Sunday.

This is a war that should not have happened, and it is a war that does no one any good, Wang said at a press conference on the sidelines of the fourth session of the 14th National People's Congress.

"Force provides no solution, and armed conflict will only increase hatred and breed new crises," he said.

The sovereignty, security and territorial integrity of Iran and all countries in the Gulf region should be respected and must not be violated, Wang said, outlining the fundamental principles for properly handling issues related to Iran and the Middle East.

Might does not make right and civilians should not be victimized, Wang said, stressing the principle of rejecting the abuse of force.

The people in the Middle East are the true master of this region and Middle Eastern affairs should be determined by regional countries independently, the foreign minister said, urging non-interference in internal affairs.

"Plotting color revolution or seeking regime change will find no popular support," he added.

All sides should return to the negotiating table as quickly as possible, resolve differences through equal dialogue, and make efforts to realize common security, Wang said, highlighting the principle of promoting political settlement of hotspot issues.

Wang called on major countries to act in the spirit of justice and righteousness, and contribute more positive energy to peace and development of the Middle East.

China stands ready to work with Middle Eastern countries to implement the Global Security Initiative, and restore order to the Middle East, tranquility to its people, and peace to the world, Wang said.