Chinese diplomat visiting Saudi, Iran

A senior Chinese diplomat will have in-depth discussions with Saudi Arabia and Iran on regional situation in his trip to the two countries, a Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Thursday.

Vice Foreign Minister Zhang Ming is visiting Saudi Arabia and will visit Iran, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Hua Chunying said while commenting on several countries cutting off or downgrading diplomatic ties with Iran after its row with Saudi Arabia, Xinhua News Agency reported.

Hua told a regular press briefing that China is also keeping in touch with the countries in Beijing in order to promote de-escalation of regional tensions. China has always been working toward peace and stability in the Middle East.

"China has voiced concern for situation in the Middle East for many times and hopes all relevant parties can keep calm and show restraint, and properly handle disputes via dialogue and negotiation," Hua said.

Saudi Arabia's execution of 47 individuals on terrorism charges, including Shiite cleric Namir al-Namir caused angry protests in Iran and an attack on the Saudi diplomatic mission in Tehran.

After Saudi Arabia cut off diplomatic ties with Iran, Bahrain and Sudan followed suit and the United Arab Emirates downgraded relations. Qatar and Kuwait also recalled their ambassadors.

Source: MENA