China is mobilising efforts to end the war in Iran while walking a diplomatic tightrope between Washington and Tehran, in preparation for a summit with US President Donald Trump next month. The meeting with President Xi Jinping is expected to take place in mid-May, with 14–15 May reported as possible dates.
Beijing has responded with a diplomatic approach ahead of the summit, balancing its ties with both sides while seeking to ensure the meeting proceeds smoothly.
Xi’s mid-May meeting to discuss the US-China economic relationship is shaping Beijing’s approach to the Middle East conflict. China’s position is rooted in its reliance on the region for around half of its fuel imports, and the need to safeguard energy supplies.
China’s careful approach to the war has preserved its ability to maintain back-channel leverage, with Trump crediting Beijing with helping to bring Iran into peace talks in Pakistan last weekend.
Eric Olander, Editor-in-Chief of the China-Global South Project, said: “You've heard President Trump repeatedly mention how the Chinese talked to the Iranians, that puts them in the room with negotiators, even if it's not a seat at the table.”
The US naval blockade of Iranian ports presents a direct threat to energy transport, one that China has refrained from strongly criticising as it seeks to maintain diplomatic space ahead of the summit.
In response to Trump’s threat of taking out the entire country “in one night”, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning refrained from direct criticism, saying instead that China was “deeply concerned” and urging all sides to play a “constructive role in de-escalating the situation”.
Foreign Minister Wang Yi has conducted nearly thirty calls and meetings with counterparts to promote a ceasefire, according to a Reuters count, and special envoy Zhai Jun has visited several Gulf and Arab capitals.
On Tuesday (14 April), Xi announced a four-point peace plan, emphasising peaceful coexistence, national sovereignty, international law, and balancing development and security.
The plan was presented during a meeting with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, signalling China’s engagement with regional actors while encouraging dialogue with Tehran.
Source: commonspace.eu with Reuters
