In a significant diplomatic meeting, Ambassador Yao Wen of China engaged in a comprehensive discussion with Yousef Ramadan, Ambassador of Palestine to Bangladesh, regarding the critical Palestinian issue.

The meeting, held on October 16, served as a platform for both sides to exchange thoughts on the ongoing conflict in the region.

Ambassador Yao Wen highlighted China's stance on the conflict, emphasizing the immediate need to halt hostilities, prevent their unchecked escalation, and mitigate the humanitarian crisis. He underlined the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law to safeguard the lives of innocent civilians. Moreover, he urged the swift establishment of humanitarian corridors to avert a severe catastrophe, a press release from the Embassy of China in Bangladesh said.

Furthermore, China called upon all relevant nations to exhibit restraint, adopt a just and objective approach, and actively contribute to de-escalation efforts. Ambassador Yao emphasized the crucial role the United Nations must play in resolving the Palestinian question, with a particular focus on the UN Security Council's responsibility in building international consensus and implementing effective measures.

China unequivocally condemned all forms of violence and attacks against civilians, firmly opposing any actions that contravene international law. The protection of civilians, as stipulated by international humanitarian law, was considered a paramount priority. Ambassador Yao Wen stressed that the indiscriminate use of force was unacceptable, emphasizing that neither Palestinian nor Israeli civilians should become targets. Furthermore, it was imperative to ensure the safety of UN staff and humanitarian workers.

China is actively engaged in dialogue with concerned parties and is dispatching the Special Envoy of the Chinese Government on Middle East Affairs to relevant countries in the region. This move underscores China's commitment to facilitating a cessation of violence and de-escalating the situation. Additionally, China called for the convening of a comprehensive international peace conference under the UN's auspices, with the aim of building global consensus and hastening a just and lasting resolution to the Palestinian question.

Ambassador Yao Wen emphasized that the Palestinian issue lies at the core of the Middle East predicament and remains an open wound in today's world. He identified the prolonged delay in realizing the dream of an independent State of Palestine as the root cause of the issue. While acknowledging Israel's right to statehood, he passionately emphasized that the same right should be extended to Palestine. The suffering of the Palestinian people, owing to historical injustices, was a matter of grave concern.

The Ambassador advocated the two-state solution as the answer to the Palestinian question. The realization of an independent State of Palestine alongside Israel is perceived as the path to peaceful coexistence and harmony among Arabs and Jews. He reiterated that only through the full implementation of the two-state solution can the Middle East attain lasting peace and ensure Israel's security. The resumption of peace talks at the earliest juncture was endorsed as the correct course of action, with all peace-promoting mechanisms expected to play a constructive role.

Ambassador Yao Wen concluded the discussion by reiterating China's steadfast commitment to peace, justice, international law, and the shared aspirations of the world's nations in addressing the Palestinian question. China stands resolutely on the side of humanity's conscience, emphasizing the urgent need to work toward a just and lasting solution to this protracted issue.

BDST: 1325 HRS, OCT 16, 2023 
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