Xi warns against great-power rivalry in the Gulf, pledges China’s support for peace

Chinese President Xi Jinping has warned that the Middle East and Gulf region must not become a battleground for great-power rivalry, pledging to work with Arab nations to achieve lasting peace and stability.

Xi made the remarks during talks with Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said in Beijing, according to China’s Foreign Ministry.

“The Middle East Gulf region should not become an arena for great-power rivalry and geopolitical conflict,” Xi said, stressing that regional peace requires collective efforts.

In a 20-point joint statement, China and Oman called for normal and safe navigation to resume through the Strait of Hormuz. They urged the United States and Iran to pursue peaceful solutions, return to the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding and resume dialogue and negotiations.

The two sides also called for a comprehensive ceasefire and efforts to prevent further conflict.

Sultan Haitham expressed appreciation for China’s position on regional issues, emphasising the importance of security, sovereignty and resolving disputes through peaceful means.