China Pushes Gulf Nations to Finalize Long-Delayed Free Trade Deal

Post by : Saif Nasser

China has urged the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) to move forward and complete negotiations on a long-pending free trade agreement, saying the global situation makes such cooperation urgent and necessary.

China’s Foreign Minister Wang Yi made the remarks during a meeting with GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi in Riyadh. The meeting took place as part of Wang’s official Middle East tour, which includes visits to the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan.

According to a statement from China’s foreign ministry, Wang said talks on a China-GCC free trade agreement have been ongoing for more than 20 years. He added that most conditions are now ready and that it is time for both sides to take a final decision. Wang warned that free trade around the world is under pressure due to rising protectionism and countries focusing more on their own interests.

He said a successful agreement would send a strong message in support of open markets, multilateral trade, and global cooperation. Wang also said China supports the GCC in strengthening its unity, coordination, and strategic independence.

The GCC includes Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain. These countries are important partners for China, especially in energy, trade, and investment. China has shown interest in deepening cooperation in areas such as oil and gas, infrastructure, investment, and new energy development.

During his visit to Riyadh, Wang also held separate meetings with senior Saudi leaders, including Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al-Saud and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Both sides agreed to improve communication and coordination on regional and international issues.

China praised Saudi Arabia’s role in promoting diplomacy and security in the Middle East. Beijing also expressed support for better relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran and called for a fair and lasting solution to the Palestinian issue. Wang described Saudi Arabia as a key partner in China’s Middle East diplomacy and said China is ready to support the country’s long-term development and economic transformation.

The two countries also agreed to expand cooperation in energy, investment, green technology, and clean energy projects. As a sign of closer ties, China and Saudi Arabia will allow visa-free travel for holders of diplomatic and special passports.

China’s push to conclude the free trade deal comes at a time when global trade rules are facing challenges. By urging Gulf nations to act now, Beijing is aiming to strengthen economic ties and promote stability through cooperation. If finalized, the agreement could boost trade, reduce tariffs, and increase investment between China and the Gulf region, shaping a stronger economic partnership for the future.