Xi Jinping Advocates Peace in Middle East Amid Global Tensions

Middle East Stability at the Forefront

During a recent meeting with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq al-Said of Oman, Chinese President Xi Jinping voiced strong support for maintaining peace in the Middle East. He cautioned against allowing the region to transform into a battleground for global powers, highlighting the importance of cooperation among nations.

A Call for Joint Efforts

While China's historical role in Middle Eastern diplomacy has been relatively understated, President Xi has amplified China's commitment, especially in light of the escalating tensions due to the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran. This geopolitical discord has had widespread implications, including disrupting trade routes through the Strait of Hormuz and inflating global energy prices.

Xi stated that the current global landscape is characterized by significant changes that haven't been seen in a century. He stressed the necessity for all parties to collaborate in preserving peace and stability in the Gulf region, adding that “the Middle East Gulf region should not become an arena for great-power rivalry and geopolitical conflict.”

Commitment to Conflict Resolution

In a declaration following their discussions, both Xi and Sultan Haitham recognized the urgency of restoring safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz. They urged the United States and Iran to pursue peaceful resolutions and revive their dialogue based on a previous agreement from June.

China has consistently advocated for an end to hostilities and is eager to provide “wisdom and solutions to resolving the region’s security dilemmas.” This commitment includes enhancing collaboration with Gulf states and forming strong ties with Arab nations.

Strengthening Economic Ties

Sultan Haitham made his historic visit to Beijing — the first by an Omani leader since the countries established diplomatic ties in 1978. During his visit, he expressed appreciation for China's supportive positions on key regional issues, emphasizing that development and stability are intertwined.

He pointed out that for countries to prosper, they need a foundation of security and peace, where conflicts are resolved through dialogue. In this context, Oman is keen to forge a preferential trade and investment agreement with China, a move that could enhance economic cooperation significantly.

Oman's Trade Partnership with China

As China's largest trade partner in the region, Oman has been the recipient of growing tourism and business ties, particularly following the establishment of direct flights between Beijing and Muscat from November 2025. The Sultan highlighted Oman’s role in exporting crude oil and energy resources to China, while simultaneously focusing on the expansion of its renewable energy sectors and digital commerce.

In their joint statement, both nations expressed intentions to deepen collaborations in oil and gas initiatives, as well as expanding efforts in emerging energy sectors like solar power, wind energy, energy storage, and more. These areas present vast opportunities for mutual growth and development.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to enhancing investment partnerships between Omani and Chinese financial institutions, further solidifying their economic relationship. As global dynamics shift, both leaders remain focused on collaborative growth and lasting peace in the Middle East.