Behind the Scenes: China Facilitates US-Iran Ceasefire, Boosting Beijing's Leverage for Trump-Xi Summit

AI Summary (NQ-processed)

According to the Associated Press, China, as Iran's largest oil buyer, secretly mediated a ceasefire between the US and Iran. This move aims to stabilize the Middle East, which is crucial for China's interests, and enhance Beijing's international standing. It also provides China with increased leverage for trade negotiations during President Trump's upcoming visit next month. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz significantly impacted the Chinese economy, prompting China to cooperate with Pakistan in mediating the ceasefire. A former US State Department official noted that while it's rare for China to use its influence for others, this action allowed Beijing to portray itself as a stabilizing force and Washington as reckless.