Saudi Arabia, China Agree to Foster Closer Coordination on Regional, Global Issues
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a landmark meeting with his Chinese Counterpart Wang Yi on Sunday in Riyadh as part of Wang’s official tour to the Middle East, according to Reuters.
Mutual Cooperation
During the meeting, both ministers agreed to have deeper communication and closer coordination on regional and international issues.
Beijing also commended the Kingdom’s central role and diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East.
“(China) appreciates Saudi Arabia’s leading role and efforts to achieve regional and international security and stability,” the statement released on Monday said.
China’s official news agency Xinhua noted that both parties plan to solidify mutual coordination without specifying what issues they will coordinate on.
Unwavering Support
The statement revealed that China will offer unwavering support for Saudi Arabia and Iran developing and advancing their relations.
In recent years, Beijing has been intensifying its efforts to position itself as a mediator in the region by facilitating a rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023.
During the meeting, the Chinses top diplomat underscored both countries’ support for a “comprehensive and just settlement” of the Palestinian cause and the establishment of an independent Palestinian State.
Saudi Diplomatic Role
Moreover, Wang told his Saudi Counterpart that China has always considered Saudi Arabia as a “priority for Middle East diplomacy” and a significant partner in global diplomacy.
A statement by the Chinese Foreign Ministry also noted that areas of Saudi-Chinese cooperation will include energy, investments, new energy and green transformation.
Mutual Visa Exemption
Interestingly, the talks featured the announcement of mutual visa exemption for diplomatic and special passport holders from both sides.
The meeting was part of Wang’s three-nation tour in the Middle East that began in the United Arab Emirates on December 12 and will conclude in Jordan on December 16.
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