US President Donald Trump has asked to postpone his planned visit to Beijing by about a month due to the ongoing war with Iran, telling reporters on Monday that he feels he must remain in the United States during the crisis.
The US president had earlier hinted the trip could be suspended if China did not assist in securing the Strait of Hormuz, a vital oil route disrupted by the conflict. Trump noted that China benefits from the strait and should help ensure its safety.
China's foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said the two sides are maintaining communication regarding the visit, while calling for a ceasefire in Iran to prevent further escalation and avoid turmoil in the region.
The visit, originally scheduled for late March, is seen as crucial for stability between the world's two largest economies. Trade talks between US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng are ongoing in Paris, with discussions on agricultural and critical mineral trade reportedly stable.
Tehran's effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, through which about 20% of global oil passes, has caused major supply disruption. China, which imports about 50% of its crude oil via the strait, has declined to address US requests for military assistance but is reportedly in talks with Iran about allowing oil tankers to pass.
