They have a 40 year oil agreement already in place and China doesn’t want a regime change in Iran. Ultimately it wants control over the middle East, to change the petrodollar to its currency.
China is watching the war play out, and is doing so from a superior economic perspective. At some point it will look for checkmate from an economic global position of strength.
The world was watching as US President Donald Trump began his first visit to China in his second term. He carries bitter memories of Beijing from his initial visit during his first term in 2017. Back then, as he attempted to impose his America First policy, he was met with a reception that was lavish in its display but sharp in its undertones.
This week, nine years later, Trump returned to Beijing on a far more complex mission: a war in the Middle East, trade tensions, and fierce strategic competition.
China is Iran’s largest trade partner and top buyer of its oil. Beijing holds more leverage than Washington wants to admit. Amidst increasing global uncertainty and volatility, the international community looks to Beijing, hopeful that this high-level engagement will offer clarity and stability for the trajectory of China-US relations.
Whether the two sides can demonstrate the vision and responsibility expected of major countries, and deliver more tangible benefits to the world, bears directly on the well-being of the future of humanity.
Wandile Mtana, Uitenhage
- China and Iran have a 40-year oil agreement, with China opposing regime change in Iran and aiming to control the Middle East and shift the petrodollar to its currency.
- China is strategically monitoring the Middle East conflict, planning to leverage its economic strength for global influence.
- US President Donald Trump visited China amid complex issues including Middle East tensions, trade disputes, and strategic rivalry.
- China is Iran's largest trade partner and top oil buyer, giving Beijing significant leverage over Washington.
- The global community is watching China-US relations closely, hoping for responsible leadership that benefits global stability and humanity’s future.
China is watching the war play out, and is doing so from a superior economic perspective. At some point it will look for checkmate from an economic global position of strength.
China is Iran’s largest trade partner and top buyer of its oil.
