China's Wang Yi Meets Saudi Foreign Minister During Mideast Tour

Does the China–Saudi partnership reflect genuine mutual interests and respect, or is it primarily a strategic move by Beijing to weaken U.S. influence?

Published 6 hours ago·Updated 3 hours ago

China's Wang Yi Meets Saudi Foreign Minister During Mideast Tour

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Above: China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi (R) shakes hands with Saudi Arabia's Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud at a meeting of foreign ministers from Arab and Muslim-majority nations in Beijing on Nov. 20, 2023. Image credit: Pedro Padro/Getty Images

The Spin

Pro-China narrative

China's deepening partnership with Saudi Arabia represents a natural alignment of interests that benefits both nations through expanded trade, technology cooperation and mutual respect for sovereignty. The comprehensive strategic partnership delivers tangible economic outcomes while China supports Saudi Arabia's greater role in international affairs and backs its hosting of Expo 2030 Riyadh. Beijing's principled stance of non-interference in internal affairs offers a refreshing alternative to Western pressure campaigns.

Mehr News Agency CGTN

Anti-China narrative

The PRC regime's aggressive wedging strategy in the Middle East exploits regional tensions to undermine American influence while freeloading off U.S. security guarantees. Beijing's implicit support for destabilizing forces like Hamas and refusal to help suppress Houthi attacks on Red Sea shipping reveals a willingness to sacrifice stability for geopolitical gains. This approach risks Chinese economic interests and strains relations with key partners who reject the chaos Beijing tacitly endorses.

Atlantic Council Middle East Online