China Pledges Deeper Cooperation Amid Regional Development Push
Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi announced on December 17, 2025 that China will align its upcoming 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) with Middle Eastern nations' development strategies, marking a significant step in cross-regional cooperation. The commitment follows Wang's recent diplomatic tour through the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan – key partners in China's Belt and Road Initiative.
Multi-Sector Collaboration Blueprint
The cooperation framework spans traditional sectors like energy and trade to emerging fields including green technology and digital infrastructure. Wang emphasized China's role as a 'reliable partner' in regional modernization efforts, particularly through innovation-driven projects and cultural exchange programs set to launch in 2026.
Security and Development Synergy
Reiterating President Xi Jinping's Global Security Initiative, Wang called for international support in addressing Middle Eastern conflicts through dialogue. The foreign minister specifically addressed the Palestinian issue, reaffirming China's support for a two-state solution and urging international action to prevent renewed conflict in Gaza.
Strategic Partnerships Strengthened
Wang noted strong Arab support for the one-China principle regarding Taiwan, describing it as fundamental to China-Arab relations. The 2026 China-Arab States Summit is positioned to elevate cooperation through head-of-state diplomacy and Belt and Road projects, with plans to establish new multilateral cooperation mechanisms.
