China's Vice President Meets Saudi Crown Prince in Riyadh to Strengthen Bilateral Ties Amid Trade Concerns

China's Vice President Han Zheng met with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh to strengthen bilateral relations and explore enhanced cooperation, especially in energy, industrial sectors, and regional issues. Both leaders discussed recent regional and global developments, emphasizing mutual support on core interests, amid concerns from Riyadh about cheap Chinese imports affecting Saudi Arabia's industrial transition efforts. The meeting occurred during the Future Investment Initiative conference in Riyadh, highlighting China's strategic engagement in the Gulf, including joint naval drills and industrial investment talks. Despite ongoing free trade agreement negotiations being held up since 2024 due to import concerns, China reiterated its readiness to deepen ties and work with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries on energy partnerships and economic collaboration. The diplomatic exchange underscores Riyadh’s position as a key economic partner for China in the Middle East and reflects Beijing's broader ambitions to expand influence and investment in the region.