China reaffirms the necessity of respecting the sovereignty of Gulf states and ensuring safe navigation through international maritime passages

Beijing, July 24 (KUNA) -- China reaffirmed on Friday the necessity of respecting the sovereignty and security of the various Gulf states and ensuring safe navigation through international sea lanes, in the wake of the Houthi militia’s attack on a Saudi oil tanker in the Red Sea. Xinhua News Agency quoted Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian at a press conference as saying that China calls on all concerned parties to exercise restraint, continue to resolve differences through dialogue and consultation, and avoid taking measures that could exacerbate tensions, thereby paving the way for a swift restoration of peace and stability in the region. It is recalled that the Yemeni Houthi militia announced last Monday the imposition of a “maritime navigation ban” on ships moving to and from Saudi Arabia, amid renewed US-Iranian escalation, a move that could disrupt alternative export routes for Saudi Arabia, the world’s largest oil exporter apart from the Strait of Hormuz. (End) S.L.Q. / A.B.X.