China Boosts Middle East Diplomacy Before Xi-Trump Summit

Beijing, April 17, 2026 – China has intensified diplomatic outreach in the Middle East to ease tensions in the ongoing conflict with Iran, as President Xi Jinping prepares to host U.S. President Donald Trump for a summit on May 14 and 15.

The effort comes amid a U.S.-led naval blockade of Iranian ports and a fragile two-week ceasefire between Washington and Tehran, which expires next week. Beijing, the world's largest importer of crude oil, depends on the region for about half of its fuel supplies, making stability in shipping routes and energy markets a top priority. Chinese officials have conducted dozens of calls and visits to promote de-escalation, while avoiding direct criticism of U.S. actions.

Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held nearly 30 discussions with counterparts from Gulf states and Arab nations, according to diplomatic tallies. Special envoy Zhai Jun visited five capitals, traveling by road at times to skirt contested airspace and even hearing air raid sirens during one trip. President Xi outlined a four-point peace plan during a meeting with Abu Dhabi's Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Zayed Al Nahyan, calling for respect for national sovereignty, adherence to...