Xi Urges Reopening of Strait of Hormuz in Call with Saudi Prince

Chinese President Xi Jinping urged the immediate reopening of the Strait of Hormuz during a phone call on Monday with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, marking the first time Beijing's leader has publicly called for restoring normal shipping through the vital waterway. The strait, a key chokepoint for global oil shipments, has faced disruptions for about 50 days following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran that began on February 28.

Xi emphasized that uninterrupted navigation serves the interests of regional nations and the international community, according to statements from China's state news agency. He linked the blockades to significant impacts on Chinese oil imports and called for an immediate comprehensive ceasefire, insisting that disputes be resolved through political and diplomatic channels. The Chinese leader also expressed commitment to strengthening strategic trust and expanding cooperation with Saudi Arabia.

The disruptions have strained energy supplies worldwide. China imported 5.86 million tons of crude oil from Saudi Arabia in March, a 10 percent decline from February, based on customs data. Broader effects include tankers making U-turns and traffic largely...