As global tensions escalate, China is expanding its diplomatic footprint in the Middle East, particularly regarding the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iran. This movement is exemplified by recent high-level visits, including the historic reception of Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq by President Xi Jinping, signaling a renewed commitment to regional stability and constructive dialogue.
China is intensifying its diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East amidst the rising tensions linked to the U.S.-Iran conflict. Foreign Minister Wang Yi met recently with Ali Bagheri Kani, deputy secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, in Beijing, underscoring a desire for dialogue as a means to address continuing regional unrest. Wang reiterated that dialogue and negotiation are “the only viable path forward,” a sentiment reflecting China’s support for Iran’s sovereignty and security. This stance aligns with Beijing’s ongoing critique of U.S. and Israeli actions in the region, which it blames for exacerbating the conflict.
During this time, China’s diplomatic activities had seen a lull, prompting concerns that the progress toward conflict resolution had stagnated. Analysts, including Al Jazeera correspondent Katrina Yu, noted that there had been little movement from Beijing to facilitate negotiations recently. The meetings on Monday signal a potential shift, indicating that China is eager to re-engage and catalyze the peace process. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs also announced that special envoy Zhai Jun will travel to Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia later this month, suggesting a proactive approach to diplomacy.
The visit from Sultan Haitham marks a significant moment, as it is the first state visit by an Omani head of state to China since the two nations established diplomatic relations in 1978. President Xi emphasized the importance of maintaining the Middle East and Gulf as regions free from great-power rivalry, advocating for cooperative strategies instead.
Oman plays a critical role in the geopolitics of the region, particularly as a facilitator of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital conduit for global energy exports. Xi described China-Oman relations as entering a “new historical starting point,” reflecting a shared interest in stability and prosperity. The two nations signed 14 cooperation agreements covering various fields, including artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and supply chains, alongside a currency swap agreement to enhance economic ties.
In their joint statement, both countries called for a resumption of safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz and urged the U.S. and Iran to restart dialogue. The conflict has highlighted the strategic importance of Oman, as it is positioned to facilitate trade and energy flows that have been disrupted due to ongoing hostilities. With rising global energy demands, China’s continued investment in maintaining constructive relations with Oman and Iran is likely to be a pivotal aspect of its Middle East strategy.
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