Xi Jinping: Middle East Must Not Be a Rivalry Battleground

China’s President Xi Jinping told Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tariq on 2 November 2026 that the Middle East and the Gulf should not become a battleground for great-power rivalry, as the two countries marked the first visit by an Omani head of state since diplomatic ties began in 1978. The talks produced a 20-point joint statement covering trade, energy and security — including safe navigation through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important oil shipping routes.

A First Visit in Nearly Five Decades

China and Oman established diplomatic relations in 1978, but no Omani head of state had made a state visit until now. Sultan Haitham’s trip therefore carried symbolic weight beyond its agenda: it signalled that Muscat wants a deeper, more visible relationship with Beijing, and that Beijing wants to be seen as a partner — not just a customer — for Gulf states.

Oman has long played a distinctive role in the region. It maintains relations with a wide range of countries, including Iran, and has acted as a quiet mediator in regional disputes. That history makes Muscat a natural partner for China, which has presented itself as a supporter of dialogue and non-interference in the region.

What Xi Said — and Why It Matters

Xi’s statement that the region should not become a battleground for great-power rivalry is a message with more than one audience. For Gulf states, it is reassurance: China presents itself as a partner that does not ask countries to choose sides. For the United States, which remains the region’s dominant security partner, it is a reminder that Beijing intends to be a lasting presence. And for the wider world, it frames China’s Middle East policy as one of stability and trade rather than military competition.

The statement does not, by itself, change the region’s security balance. The United States maintains bases and partnerships across the Gulf, China remains primarily an economic partner, and Gulf states themselves continue to balance relationships with multiple powers. The significance of the remark lies in its timing and its setting — delivered during a landmark visit, and backed by a detailed joint statement.

The 20-Point Joint Statement

The joint statement covered cooperation across trade, investment, energy and security. One of its most closely watched elements was safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow waterway between Iran and Oman through which a large share of the world’s seaborne oil passes. Any disruption there affects global energy prices, so a public commitment to safe passage from both Beijing and Muscat is a signal to markets as well as to governments.

What Comes Next

China’s special envoy for the Middle East, Zhai Jun, is due to visit Iran, Oman and Saudi Arabia later in November 2026 — a follow-up that suggests Beijing wants to turn the Oman visit’s language into working diplomacy. The visit also comes days before two major summits: the ASEAN Summit in Manila (16–18 November), where a possible Xi visit is under discussion — see our explainer on whether Xi Jinping could come to Manila — and the APEC meeting in Shenzhen (18–19 November), which Xi himself will host, covered in our APEC 2026 Shenzhen summit guide.

For readers following world events, our Iqbal Day 2026 Pakistan guide, Melbourne Cup 2026 race day guide and Black Friday home deals guide 2026 may also be of interest.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did Xi Jinping say about the Middle East?

He said the Middle East/Gulf should not become a battleground for great-power rivalry, during talks with Oman’s Sultan on 2 November 2026.

Why was the Oman visit significant?

It was the first visit by an Omani head of state since China–Oman ties began in 1978.

What did the 20-point joint statement cover?

Trade, investment, energy and security cooperation, including safe navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

Who is Zhai Jun?

China’s special envoy for the Middle East, due to visit Iran, Oman and Saudi Arabia later in November 2026.