Donald Trump and his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping had a “good” discussion today and agreed the Strait of Hormuz “must remain open”, the White House stated.
Since the start of hostilities with the United States and Israel on Feb. 28, Iran has severely restricted transportation through the critical canal through which a fifth of the world’s oil and natural gas regularly flows, AFP writes.
“The two sides agreed that the Strait of Hormuz must remain open to ensure the free flow of energy,” the White House said.
The absence of petroleum traversing the Strait of Hormuz directly affects China.
The Middle East accounts for more than half of the crude transported by sea to China and largely transits through the strait, maritime analytics firm Kpler said.
Xi indicated willingness in buying more American oil to lessen China’s future dependence on the Strait, the White House said.
Beijing’s own account of the meeting made no mention of such interest.
The White House statement did not mention any talks between the two presidents on the topic of Taiwan, the self-ruled island claimed by Beijing and a contentious issue in US-China relations.
Chinese state media stated Xi warned earlier that “conflict” could break out between China and the United States if the issue is mismanaged.
About the Author
