CAIRO, Sept. 2 -- China and Egypt welcome regional and international efforts to ease tension and promote dialogue in the Middle East, according to a joint statement issued on Wednesday.

In the statement, the two sides said they welcome efforts by regional countries and the international community to promote a political understanding that takes into account the concerns of all parties and contributes to peace and stability in the Gulf and the Middle East via easing tensions and enhancing dialogue.

China commends Egypt for playing a key role in promoting regional security and stability, and for its sustained efforts to advance a comprehensive political settlement of geopolitical crises in the Middle East, promote good-neighborly and friendly relations, and uphold the principles of respect for national sovereignty and non-interference in internal affairs, said the statement.

Egypt commends Chinese President Xi Jinping's proposals for safeguarding and promoting peace and stability in the Middle East.

During Xi's state visit to Egypt, the two countries released the joint statement on further deepening their comprehensive strategic partnership.