China has called for a lasting truce in the Middle East, and for shipping lanes to be reopened “as soon as possible”, as the strategic Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed, AFP reports.

“A comprehensive and lasting ceasefire should be reached as soon as possible to facilitate the early restoration of peace and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf region,” Beijing’s foreign ministry said in a statement.

“Shipping lanes should be reopened as soon as possible in response to the calls of the international community,” it added in a response to a question on whether US and Chinese presidents Donald Trump and Xi Jinping discussed the Iran war during their summit in Beijing.