Jordan’s King to visit China for talks with Xi

Jordan's King Abdullah II will embark on a visit to China from August 18 to 24, meeting with President Xi Jinping, according to Beijing's announcement on Monday. This visit comes at a time when Jordan finds itself in a precarious position amidst the ongoing conflict between the US and Iran. As a significant purchaser of Iranian oil, China has maintained a neutral stance in the Middle East conflict and has called for stability in the Strait of Hormuz.

The trip, at the invitation of Xi, is expected to focus on discussions about bilateral relations and shared concerns on international and regional issues. The Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, stated that the leaders will aim to enhance political mutual trust, expand mutually beneficial cooperation, and contribute positively to regional peace, stability, and development.

Last month, a resurgence in fighting saw Iran target US military bases in Jordan, prompting a retaliatory strike from Washington. During his ninth visit to China since ascending to the throne in 1999, the Jordanian king will also pay visits to Shanghai and Shenzhen.