Xi Jinping’s meeting with Abu Dhabi crown prince highlights Gulf turn towards China

President Xi Jinping's visit to the UAE marks a significant step in deepening the strategic partnership between China and the United Arab Emirates. During his meeting with Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Xi outlined a comprehensive four-point proposal aimed at bolstering stability in the Middle East. This initiative underscores China's commitment to promoting national sovereignty, upholding international law, and reinforcing the central role of the United Nations in regional affairs.

Xi's remarks, particularly his call to reject the "law of the jungle," were widely interpreted as a subtle critique of Western interventions in the region. By stressing the importance of peaceful coexistence and a common security framework for the Gulf, China positions itself as a proponent of a multipolar world order, offering an alternative to existing power dynamics. The emphasis on respecting national sovereignty and territorial integrity resonates deeply within the region.

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The authority of the international rule of law should be upheld and cannot be used when convenient and discarded when not.

This engagement highlights China's "quiet but pragmatic" diplomacy, particularly during the ongoing Iran crisis. Beijing's proactive approach seeks to foster resilience and dynamism in its strategic partnerships, demonstrating a clear intent to play a more influential role in global governance and regional security. The UAE, as a key player in the Gulf, serves as a crucial partner in this evolving geopolitical landscape.

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We must not allow the world to revert to the law of the jungle.