BEIJING: The ongoing war involving Iran has added fresh strain to relations between the United States and China ahead of a high-level summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping scheduled for May 14-15 in Beijing.
The conflict is expected to dominate talks between the two leaders as Washington seeks Beijing’s support in easing tensions and reopening the Strait of Hormuz for global shipping. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent recently urged China to cooperate in international efforts to secure the strategic waterway.
China, however, has maintained a cautious approach. While Beijing reportedly encouraged Iran to hold peace talks with the United States last month, it has also defended Tehran’s right to peaceful nuclear energy and called for a complete ceasefire.
The war has also raised concerns over China’s energy security, as nearly half of its oil imports come through the Middle East. Disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz have already reduced Chinese crude imports sharply.
Meanwhile, tensions have grown over US sanctions targeting Chinese companies accused of buying Iranian oil and supplying materials linked to Iran’s weapons and missile programs.
