China has dismissed allegations that Chinese enterprises supplied equipment and components for the Houthi missile program, calling the claims baseless. Shao Zheng, the chargé d’affaires of the Chinese Embassy to Yemen, rejected the reports during an interview with Asharq Al-Awsat.
He stated that Beijing maintains rigorous controls over the export of dual-use materials. The country fully complies with relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions, including Resolution 2216.
Shao said Beijing is prepared to receive any information or reports provided by the Yemeni government concerning the allegations. He confirmed that China would conduct a comprehensive investigation into any evidence presented by local authorities.
The diplomat reiterated Beijing’s support for the internationally recognized Yemeni government. He emphasized that China backs the sovereignty, territorial integrity, and national unity of Yemen.
He urged the Houthi movement to abandon military action and return to peaceful dialogue. Speaking on diplomatic ties, Shao noted that China and Yemen are celebrating the 70th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.
He described Yemen as a close friend and valued partner, outlining ongoing efforts to strengthen cooperation in political, economic, cultural, and educational sectors. Communication between Beijing and the Yemeni government remains active through official visits, correspondence, and telephone calls.
China recently hosted several Yemeni officials, including the interior minister, who spent ten days discussing public security cooperation. A delegation of about ten Yemeni government officials is scheduled to visit China later this month.
Turning to regional security, Shao expressed China’s opposition to attacks on commercial vessels in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. He stressed the importance of safeguarding international trade, noting that roughly 10 percent of global trade passes through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait.
He also condemned attacks targeting airports and similar facilities in Saudi Arabia. He called on all regional parties to de-escalate tensions and pursue a political settlement to end the conflict, which has lasted nearly 12 years.
Shao denied that any Chinese personnel are currently stationed in Sanaa. He explained that Beijing withdrew all diplomatic staff from the city after the war began in 2015, and the embassy now operates from temporary premises in Riyadh.
