Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi recently concluded a pivotal Middle East tour, carrying a clear message: it’s time to finalize a long-awaited Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). During his meeting with GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Al-Budaiwi in Riyadh, Wang Yi underscored the urgency, noting that these talks have spanned over two decades and the conditions are finally ripe for a “final decision.”
Why the sudden acceleration? Wang Yi highlighted the global rise in protectionism, emphasizing that free trade is currently “under attack.” He believes a successful FTA would send a powerful signal to the world, championing multilateralism and global cooperation. China sees immense potential in deepening economic ties, trade, and investment with the GCC, actively supporting the bloc’s strategic autonomy and integration.
Wang Yi’s visit to Saudi Arabia also involved significant meetings with top officials, including Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Discussions focused on closer coordination on regional and international issues, with Beijing commending Riyadh’s influential role in Middle East diplomacy and security. Both nations also expressed support for improved Saudi-Iran relations and a just resolution to the Palestinian issue.
To further solidify their partnership, China and Saudi Arabia agreed to mutually exempt visas for diplomatic and special passport holders. Wang Yi reiterated China’s commitment to Saudi Arabia as a “priority for Middle East diplomacy,” encouraging greater cooperation in traditional energy, new energy, and green transformation. China aims to be the “most reliable partner” in the region’s revitalization, fostering peace and security through stability and collaboration. This tour clearly signals China’s determined effort to strengthen its economic and diplomatic footprint in a crucial global region.
