Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the importance of preventing the Middle East and Gulf region from becoming a battleground for great-power rivalry during a meeting with Oman's Sultan Haitham bin Tariq on Monday. He expressed China's commitment to collaborating with Arab nations to foster lasting peace in the region. Xi's remarks come amid ongoing tensions and conflicts that have drawn in various global powers, raising concerns about the potential for further destabilization.

During the discussion, Xi Jinping highlighted that the geopolitical landscape should not be influenced by the rivalries of major powers, suggesting that a cooperative approach among nations in the Middle East is vital for regional stability. This statement aligns with China's broader diplomatic strategy, which seeks to enhance its influence in the Middle East while promoting peace and development.S1

The meeting with Sultan Haitham is part of Xi's ongoing diplomatic efforts to strengthen ties with Arab countries, reflecting China's growing interest in Middle Eastern affairs. As global tensions rise, particularly involving the United States and its allies, Xi's call for unity among Arab nations may serve as a counter-narrative to the prevailing dynamics of great-power competition in the region.S2