Chinese Premier Li Qiang to Visit Saudi Arabia and UAE from September 10-13

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is set to embark on a diplomatic visit to Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) from September 10 to 13, 2024, Beijing’s foreign ministry announced. This high-level visit comes as China continues to solidify its growing influence in the Middle East, a region of critical importance to its Belt and Road Initiative.

Li Qiang will chair the Fourth Meeting of the High-Level Chinese-Saudi Joint Committee, focusing on strengthening economic and political ties between the two nations. This visit also underscores China’s deepening role in the region, having played a key part in the rapprochement between Saudi Arabia and Iran in 2023.

China, while importing oil from the Middle East, has positioned itself as a neutral mediator in the region’s political landscape. It has maintained a unique stance on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict by advocating for a two-state solution while fostering strong relationships with both Israel and the Arab world. Premier Li’s visit will likely expand China’s influence in regional development and diplomacy, reaffirming Beijing’s commitment to shaping the future of the Middle East.