Xi Jinping proposes four-point plan for Middle East peace in Abu Dhabi crown prince meeting

Chinese President Xi Jinping held a high-level meeting with Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), in Beijing on April 14, 2026. The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties and addressing the pressing need for stability in the Middle East. President Xi used the occasion to present a comprehensive four-point proposal aimed at fostering a new security architecture for the region, underscoring China's growing role as a responsible global actor committed to diplomatic solutions and shared development.

President Xi's four-point proposal for Middle East peace and stability is built on the principle of peaceful coexistence. He called for the construction of a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security architecture for the Middle East and the Gulf region. This framework aims to move beyond traditional power politics and address the root causes of conflict through dialogue and mutual respect. The second point emphasized the inviolability of national sovereignty, stressing that the sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity of all countries in the region must be fully respected, along with the safety of all personnel, facilities, and institutions.

The third pillar of the proposal centers on adhering to the international rule of law. President Xi warned against the world reverting to the "law of the jungle" and advocated for upholding the authority of international law to govern state conduct. Finally, he highlighted the critical link between development and security, urging all parties to create a favorable environment for the economic growth of Middle Eastern and Gulf nations. China, he added, is ready to share the opportunities of its own modernization with Gulf countries to build a solid foundation for regional stability.

In their bilateral discussions, President Xi reaffirmed China's high regard for its comprehensive strategic partnership with the UAE. He noted that the relationship has maintained healthy and stable development, with deepening political trust, steady pragmatic cooperation, and rich cultural exchanges. Xi called for both sides to continue supporting each other on core interests, maintain high-level exchanges, and strengthen strategic alignment in areas such as energy, investment, trade, and technology. He also urged progress in education, civil aviation, and tourism, as well as closer coordination within multilateral platforms like the United Nations and BRICS.

Sheikh Khaled reciprocated the positive sentiments, emphasizing the long history and solid foundation of China-UAE relations. He praised China's responsible and constructive role in international affairs, particularly its efforts toward a political solution to the current Middle East crisis. The Crown Prince affirmed the UAE's commitment to maintaining close communication with China, promoting ceasefires and regional peace, protecting international shipping security, and preventing further negative impacts on the global economy and energy security. He also pledged to ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions within the UAE. This meeting marks a significant step in solidifying the strategic partnership between the two nations, with both leaders expressing a shared vision for a more stable and prosperous Middle East.