Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi (Wang I) said on Friday that China welcomes all efforts to restore peace and save lives, stressing the need for a lasting ceasefire and stability in the Middle East.

At a joint press conference with Swiss Foreign Minister Ignazio Cassis, Wang Yi commented on the first phase of the ceasefire and prisoner exchange agreement between Israel and Hamas. He called on all parties to work towards a genuine, comprehensive and lasting ceasefire while alleviating the humanitarian crisis in the area.

Wang Yi stressed that any future arrangement for the Gaza Strip must respect the principle of "Palestinians rule Palestine" and reflect the will of the Palestinian people. He reaffirmed China's firm support for the two-state solution, saying that only the establishment of an independent State of Palestine and the fulfilment of the national rights of the Palestinians can lead to lasting peace and coexistence.

He added that China is ready to work with the international community, including Switzerland, to contribute to lasting peace and stability in the region.

CMG