Alliance between China and Saudi Arabia Blossoms

Dec. 8, 2022 (EIRNS)—An historic transformation of world economic and political possibilities surrounds the state visit of China’s Xi Jinping to Saudi Arabia. Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan explained, as reported by the official Saudi Press Agency, that the bilateral relationship is characterized by friendship, mutual trust, cooperation, and continuous coordination. Further: “The relations between the Kingdom and China are strategic and close in light of the international developments and changes taking place.”

The welcome provided for Xi’s arrival yesterday contrasted with the muted reception provided for President Joe Biden on his visit in July. Four Saudi Air Force fighter jets escorted Xi’s plane upon his entrance into Saudi airspace, and six jets made smoke trails in the red and gold colors of China’s national flag.

Today extensive discussions were held on Dec. 8 at a China-Saudi summit, between Xi and King Salman bin Abdulaziz, attended also by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The two heads of state co-signed in person the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement, and agreed to take turns to host biennial meetings between the heads of state of the two countries. China has already become the largest importer of Saudi Arabian crude oil, accounting for more than 25% of Saudi’s exports in 2021. The Saudi Press Agency puts the agreements being signed today at $29.6 billion.

A Memorandum of Understanding to develop cooperation in energy research was signed between the King Abdullah Petroleum Studies and Research Center (KAPSARC), a leading Riyadh-based advisory think tank, and China’s Economics & Technology Research Institute, which is affiliated with the China National Petroleum Corporation, to foster cross-regional cooperation in energy research.

Of note, the President of KAPSARC, Fahad Alajlan, alluded to a history of both countries having their own interpretations and approaches to carbon emissions: It’s “a pleasure to reaffirm a partnership that has been strong and will continue to be strong. This is a partnership that is an aspiration for the developing world as we enter a post-COVID and post-Paris Climate Agreement era. We see a lot of common interest and alignment between China’s and Saudi Arabia’s position when it comes to energy and climate. We both understand and reiterate the idea of common but differentiated responsibility when it comes to climate change.”

Over the next days Xi is also to participate in both the Gulf-China Summit for Cooperation and Development and the Riyadh Arab-China Summit for Cooperation and Development.