Saudi Arabia and China signed a diplomatic visa exemption, marking 35 years of strategic cooperation/Image: X
Saudi Arabia and China signed a mutual visa exemption agreement for diplomatic and official passport holders during Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi’s visit to Riyadh, hosted by Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The visit coincided with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, reflecting decades of cooperation in politics, trade, and regional security.During the visit, the ministers reviewed the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. They highlighted developments in economic, trade, investment, and energy sectors, and emphasized the alignment of their visions, which has brought mutual benefits to both countries. Prince Faisal and Wang Yi attended the fifth session of the Political Committee of the Saudi-Chinese High-Level Joint Committee, where they explored ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation across multiple fields. Both sides reiterated their support for initiatives that promote security, stability, development, and prosperity, and for measures that protect the vital interests of their respective nations.
Saudi Arabia reaffirmed its commitment to the One China policy, recognizing that Taiwan is part of China, while China expressed support for Saudi efforts to strengthen relations with Iran. China also acknowledged the Kingdom’s role in fostering regional and international security and stability.The Chinese delegation praised Saudi Arabia’s economic progress under Vision 2030 and welcomed the results of the Riyadh Arab-Chinese Summit for Cooperation and Development held in December 2022. Saudi Arabia expressed support for China hosting the Second China-Arab Summit and the Second Gulf-Chinese Summit in 2026, while China confirmed its readiness to participate in Expo 2030, which will be hosted by the Kingdom.The ministers also exchanged views on regional and global issues of shared concern. Both countries reiterated support for a comprehensive and just solution to the Palestinian question, advocating an independent Palestinian state within the 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital, in line with UN resolutions and the Arab Peace Initiative.The visit and agreements underline the ongoing collaboration between Saudi Arabia and China. As the two countries mark over three decades of diplomatic ties, both are focused on converting shared priorities into concrete cooperation that benefits their citizens and contributes to broader regional stability.