Chinese Premier Li Qiang and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman met in Riyadh to discuss enhancing cooperation in energy, investment, and trade, according to Saudi state news agency SPA. This meeting underscores the ongoing efforts to strengthen ties between China and Saudi Arabia.
Previously, Li urged for accelerated free trade talks between China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which includes Saudi Arabia and the UAE. This appeal was made during his discussion with GCC Secretary General Jasem al-Budaiwi.
Al-Budaiwi emphasized the urgency of concluding these trade negotiations soon. However, the talks have faced delays due to Saudi concerns about the impact of inexpensive Chinese imports on its domestic industries.
China and the GCC, which also includes Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain, initiated free trade discussions nearly two decades ago. Li highlighted the need to expand bilateral trade and deepen cooperation in various sectors, including oil, gas, petrochemicals, infrastructure, new energy, and the green economy.
Saudi Arabia expressed its readiness to collaborate with China on multilateral issues to ensure regional and global peace, security, and stability. Following his visit to Riyadh, Li traveled to Abu Dhabi to meet UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Mohammed.