Chinese President Xi Jinping has reiterated the need to restore normal shipping through the Strait of Hormuz in a phone call with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.
It was Beijing’s second high-level diplomatic contact with Middle Eastern leaders in a week, Chinese state media reported, underscoring China’s growing concern about disruptions to global supply chains amid escalating tensions in the region.
“The Strait of Hormuz must remain open for normal passage, as it serves the common interests of countries in the region and the international community,” the Chinese leader said.
He called for an “immediate and comprehensive ceasefire,” saying the issues should be resolved through political and diplomatic channels.
Although China has significant strategic energy reserves, Beijing remains one of the largest buyers of Iranian crude oil. The extension of military operations in the Middle East and the United States’ naval blockade pose a serious threat to China’s energy security, forcing Beijing to intervene more actively in diplomatic processes.
