China is conducting an elevated diplomatic campaign across the Middle East, holding a series of significant meetings with regional leaders. Most notably, Xi Jinping hosted Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq on 18 and 19 November for a state visit—the first by an Omani head of state to China in the nearly 50 years since the countries established diplomatic relations. Separately, China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Saudi Arabia’s national security adviser and Iran’s deputy national security council official.
These diplomatic initiatives precede an anticipated meeting between Trump and Xi at the Apec conference later this month. During the discussions, Xi emphasized that the Middle East should not become a stage for geopolitical competition among major powers. Wang Yi signaled China’s willingness to contribute to regional peace and stability, while expressing support for Iran’s sovereignty and security. The Iranian official indicated interest in China playing a larger role in international and regional affairs.
China has attempted to position itself as a regional mediator, citing its efforts to facilitate ceasefire discussions following joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran earlier in the year. However, analysts note that China’s diplomatic influence in the region has diminished from previous levels, though its substantial economic ties—including purchases of approximately 90 percent of Iran’s crude oil exports—remain significant. Between April and June, China reduced oil imports by 30 percent, with June reaching decade-low levels, a move with global economic implications.
China’s strategic positioning appears designed to capitalize on the relationship strain between the US and the region. Recent polling data shows China now viewed more favorably than the US in a majority of surveyed countries. Additionally, Trump’s stated intention to potentially resume military action against Iran creates both risks and opportunities for Beijing to advance its diplomatic interests before the upcoming bilateral meeting.
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