China and Oman Urge Regional Peace as Omani Sultan Visits Beijing
Chinese President Xi Jinping and Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq held high-level talks in Beijing focusing on regional stability, trade, and economic ties.
At a glance
- Chinese President Xi Jinping stated that the Middle East and Gulf region should avoid becoming an arena for great-power rivalry.
- Omani Sultan Haitham bin Tariq arrived in Beijing for the first state visit by an Omani leader since diplomatic ties began in 1978.
- China announced that its special envoy to the Middle East, Zhai Jun, will visit Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia this month.
Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq in Beijing on Monday during the Omani leader's historic state visit to China.
The discussions centered on international diplomacy, regional stability in the Middle East, and deepening bilateral trade ties between the two nations.
Diplomatic talks in Beijing
During their meeting at the Great Hall of the People, Xi told Sultan Haitham that the Middle East Gulf region ought not to turn into a battleground for geopolitical conflict and great-power rivalry, according to China's Foreign Ministry.
Xi stated that China remains committed to halting ongoing conflicts and aims to contribute solutions to security challenges in the region. He added that Beijing wishes to coordinate closely with Arab nations and the Gulf Cooperation Council to restore lasting stability.
Sultan Haitham expressed appreciation for China's regional stance, emphasizing that development and stability are interconnected. Omani state media reported that the sultan highlighted the need for security, peace, respect for state sovereignty, and the peaceful resolution of disputes.
Trade and economic cooperation
Beyond regional security, the two leaders discussed expanding economic partnerships. Sultan Haitham noted that Oman is open to establishing a preferential bilateral trade and investment agreement with China to boost commercial exchanges.
China currently serves as Oman's largest trade partner, importing crude oil and energy products while exploring avenues in digital commerce and networks for renewable energy supply chains, as noted by the head of Oman.
Wider diplomatic stakes
Beijing has traditionally maintained a measured diplomatic presence in the Middle East, but recent tensions linked to the conflict involving Iran and the disruption of shipping in the Strait of Hormuz have prompted increased diplomatic engagement. By hosting the first-ever state visit by an Omani head of state, China is positioning itself as an active diplomatic partner in Gulf security and economic development. The upcoming regional tour by China's special envoy to the Middle East underscores Beijing's intent to sustain dialogue with key regional players.
What to watch: China's special envoy Zhai Jun will visit Iran, Oman, and Saudi Arabia later this month.
Reporting from: Daily Maverick. Spotted an error? Tell us.
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