Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for the continued normal passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz, amid growing instability in the region linked to the ongoing Iran conflict.
The remarks were made during a phone call on Monday (April 20) with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, as Beijing intensifies diplomatic efforts to help de-escalate tensions between the United States and Iran.
According to Chinese state media agency Xinhua, Xi stressed that China supports an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Middle East and believes disputes should be resolved through political and diplomatic channels. He emphasised that maintaining open navigation in the Strait of Hormuz serves both regional and global interests.
China, which is a major importer of Iranian crude oil, has expressed concern over renewed instability after a US–Iran ceasefire came under pressure. Reports indicate that the United States recently seized an Iranian cargo vessel, while Tehran signalled it would not immediately return to peace negotiations.
Beijing has also voiced opposition to what it described as the “forced interception” of the Iranian ship, urging all parties to comply with existing ceasefire arrangements and avoid further escalation.
Xi’s call with the Saudi leader comes shortly after his meeting with the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi in Beijing, where he reiterated support for international law and regional stability. He also reaffirmed China’s position that Middle Eastern countries should take ownership of their future and work towards long-term peace in the region.
