President Xi, Saudi Crown Prince discuss growing relations

From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja

Chinese President Xi Jinping received a phone call from Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, on the afternoon of 20 April 2026.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China disclosed this development in a statement on its website.

The ministry stated that during the conversation, President Xi said China attached great importance to growing its relations with Saudi Arabia and has always upheld the principles of mutual respect, equality, and mutual benefit.

The ministry noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the China-Saudi Arabia comprehensive strategic partnership.

“Taking it as an opportunity, China stands ready to work with Saudi Arabia to deepen mutual strategic trust, enhance practical cooperation, expand exchanges at all levels, continuously increase the scope and depth of our bilateral relations, and set a fine example for the relations between China and Arab states,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China said.

Regarding the current situation in the Middle East and the Gulf region, President Xi emphasised that China calls for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, supports all efforts conducive to restoring peace, and stands for resolving disputes through political and diplomatic means.

Xi stated that the Strait of Hormuz should maintain normal passage, as this serves the common interests of regional countries and the international community.

“China supports regional countries in building a common home of good-neighbourliness, development, security and cooperation, holding their future in their own hands, and promoting lasting peace and security in the region,” Xi said.

On his part, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman noted that the relationship between Saudi Arabia and China is strategic in nature and that growing ties with China are of vital importance to Saudi Arabia.

The Crown Prince said the current warfare in the Middle East undermined the security of the Gulf states and severely disrupted global energy supplies and economic performance.

“Saudi Arabia is committed to resolving disputes and differences through dialogue and hopes to prevent further escalation.

“China is a responsible major country that consistently upholds a just position and supports Middle Eastern countries in pursuing good-neighbourliness, dialogue and cooperation.

“Saudi Arabia is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China to maintain the ceasefire, prevent the resumption of hostilities, ensure the safety and freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, and work together to find a pathway to lasting peace and stability in the region,” the Saudi Arabian Crown Prince and Prime Minister said.