Key facts
- China's foreign ministry stated that Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and security must be respected.
- Beijing opposes attacks on civilian facilities and advocates for diplomatic dispute resolution.
- President Xi Jinping and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman discussed regional stability and bilateral ties in April 2026.
- China supports an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East and safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz.
- Saudi Arabia is seeking to strengthen defense cooperation with China, citing concerns about US commitment.
- China and Saudi Arabia conducted joint maritime exercises in October 2025.
China has reiterated its support for Saudi Arabia's sovereignty and security, with foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stating that the Kingdom's rights should be respected. This statement comes in response to recent Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia and amidst broader regional instability.
Lin Jian emphasized China's opposition to attacks on civilian facilities and called for disputes to be resolved through diplomatic means, aiming to restore stability in the region. This stance aligns with China's broader foreign policy objectives in the Middle East.
Earlier, on April 20, 2026, Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman. During the call, Xi highlighted China's commitment to its strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia and called for an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire in the Middle East. He also stressed the importance of maintaining normal passage through the Strait of Hormuz, which serves the interests of regional countries and the international community.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman acknowledged the strategic nature of the relationship with China and expressed concern over the current warfare in the Middle East, which he noted undermines Gulf security and disrupts global energy supplies. He stated Saudi Arabia's commitment to resolving differences through dialogue and preventing further escalation, recognizing China as a responsible major country upholding a just position.
Furthermore, defense ties between China and Saudi Arabia have been expanding. The two nations launched their third joint maritime exercise, "Blue Sword 2025," in October 2025, aimed at enhancing operational readiness and tactical coordination. This follows Saudi Defense Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman Al Saud's visit to China in June 2024, where military and defense cooperation was discussed. Saudi Arabia has been increasingly concerned about the US commitment to its security and has expressed dissatisfaction with the US's reluctance to provide certain advanced weaponry, leading it to explore alternative defense partnerships.