Chinese President Xi Jinping urged Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday to keep the Strait of Hormuz open for normal passage amid repeated blockades triggered by US-Israeli strikes on Iran since February 28. According to CCTV, it was Xi's first public call for reopening the vital waterway, alongside pushes for an immediate ceasefire and diplomatic resolutions.
During the call, Xi stated: "The Strait of Hormuz should remain open for normal passage, which aligns with the common interest of countries in the region and the international community."
"China advocates an immediate and comprehensive ceasefire, supports all efforts conducive to restoring peace and insists on resolving disputes through political and diplomatic channels."
He added that China backs regional nations in "building a shared home of neighbourliness, development, security and cooperation and taking their future and destiny into their own hands" to foster peace and stability.
The strategically vital chokepoint for global oil trade has faced repeated blockades since the strikes began—the first time Xi has called for its reopening. The disruptions have choked oil supply chains, roiled energy markets and hampered global growth.
