An article published today by Global Times commentator Hu Xijin is exultant over the announcement of diplomatic relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia, over China’s role in brokering the deal, and at the prospect that this kind of approach can also be applied to the Ukrainian crisis.
Hu begins: “Huge breakthrough! China, Saudi Arabia and Iran unexpectedly released a joint statement in Beijing on Friday evening, saying that in response to the noble initiative of Chinese President Xi Jinping of China’s support for developing good neighborly relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran…an agreement has been reached.”
Hu added: “It’s truly a huge diplomatic breakthrough. Wall Street Journal commented that the deal mediated by China would jolt the geopolitics of the Middle East.” The author added that “it’s still unknown when China began the secret mediation. In the past China has not brokered major peace deals. Therefore, the trilateral statement released in Beijing on Friday came as a surprise to the US and the whole of the West.”
He also emphasized China’s role: “Overall, the trilateral statement is clear evidence of China’s peaceful diplomacy beginning to exert influence in the world and a proof of China’s strength being transformed into diplomatic soft power. China is a world-class power that is full of goodwill. It never harms other countries and is truly committed to win-win cooperation. Reaching this trilateral statement will definitely strengthen the impression and trust of many countries toward China.”
