China Emerges as a Promising Mediator in Resolving the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Editor's Note: The author is Saud Faisal Malik, CEO of Daily CPEC. The article only reflects the opinion of the author and not necessarily of Gwadar Pro.
One of the most difficult and serious conflicts in the Middle East has been the protracted struggle between Israel and Palestine. Finding a long-term solution is becoming more urgent given the current uptick in violence. Although the United States consistently presented itself as a significant conflict mediator in the area, its waning influence with important Arab nations has left little to show for collective success. China, on the other hand, is a new player who could be making an impact.
During a telephone call with the Foreign Minister of Israel Eli Cohen, State Councilor and Foreign Minister of China Qin Gang underlined China's willingness to assist in facilitating peace talks between Palestine and Israel. In addition to discussing the current difficulties with the Foreign Minister of Palestine, Riyadh al-Maliki, he stressed that the two-state solution and resuming peace negotiations are the top priorities.
Several factors make China a potential conflict-resolution facilitator. In the first place, China has maintained constructive diplomatic relations with both parties, establishing significant points of agreement that support its neutrality and align aspirations for peace. Additionally, it has continuously supported Palestine's UN-declared right to independence while arguing for a negotiated resolution of the conflict based on the idea of "common security." Qin's moral outlook can open the door for safe havens before prospective dialogues because de-escalation and forbearance are the secrets of enduring peace.
The fact that China sees the situation as crucial to the stability of the Middle East as a whole is another advantage. China has been drawing attention to revisions to the initial Middle East peace plan for many years in an effort to highlight relevant UN Security Council resolutions and forward the case for more inclusive paths to reestablishing confidence between Israel and the Palestinians.
Another important benchmark for encouraging negotiations is China's Global Security Initiative (GSI). Insisting on "common security" for all, the GSI advocates the consideration of everyone's valid security concerns. With strong ties to significant Arab nations including Saudi Arabia, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, and the Arab League, China has put out a four-point proposal to end the violence. Despite having more limited regional influence than other major countries, China's expanding diplomatic and economic links with both sides of the war raise the possibility that it could have a substantial impact on the outcome.
Given that Israel and Palestine are clear in their declarations that they value and welcome China's influence, there is a lot of faith in China's ability to forge relationships and conduct successful negotiations for long-term peace in the region. China's potential as a peacemaker requires consideration from a different angle than the United States, which may have had difficulty in that capacity. There is no room for passive mediation, and China's assertive method of resolving disputes may be just what the region needs to bring about peace.
