China said on Thursday that the priority in the Middle East is to get the United States and Iran back to the negotiating table, as Foreign Minister Wang Yi met Italy's Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani in Beijing.

Discussing the Middle East, Wang said China has consistently advocated resolving international disputes through dialogue and consultation, and opposes the use of force.

The war launched by the US and Israel against Iran should never have happened, he said, adding that the prolonged fighting has already had a serious impact on global energy security and the security of shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

The urgent task is to push the US and Iran back to negotiations and seek a political solution, Wang said.

He noted that China has maintained an objective and impartial position, actively promoted peace and de-escalation, supported Pakistan's mediation efforts, and is willing to remain in communication with all parties and continue to play a constructive role.

Both sides also pledged closer communication and coordination in multilateral affairs, with Wang saying China and Italy are important forces in upholding multilateralism at a time when prolonged geopolitical conflicts and escalating tensions at global flashpoints are posing serious challenges to the international order and global security.

Tajani told Wang that Italy attaches great importance to relations with China, and remains firmly committed to the one-China policy.

He said Italy values China's important role in international affairs and on multilateral platforms including the United Nations, and stands ready to work with China to safeguard world peace, stability and development.

The two sides also exchanged views on the Ukraine crisis.