Leaders discuss bilateral cooperation, economic development and regional peace during Omani state visit.
Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Sultan Haitham bin Tariq of Oman on 2 November 2026 at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, during the Sultan’s state visit to China. The discussions focused on advancing the China-Oman strategic partnership, expanding economic and diplomatic cooperation, and addressing regional and international developments.
President Xi welcomed Sultan Haitham, noting the longstanding friendship between China and Oman, which dates back more than a millennium. He highlighted progress in political mutual trust, economic cooperation and people-to-people relations, describing the development of bilateral ties as a shared strategic priority.
President Xi noted that this was the first visit to China by an Omani head of state since the establishment of diplomatic relations 48 years ago. He called for closer political engagement, greater exchanges of governance experience and continued mutual support. He also expressed China’s readiness to deepen cooperation with Oman in energy, trade, investment, advanced technology, artificial intelligence, science and innovation.
The Chinese President further encouraged expanded exchanges in education, tourism, healthcare, media and sports. He emphasised the importance of cooperation in maintaining regional stability, stating that “The Middle East and the Gulf region should not become an arena for major power rivalry or geopolitical conflicts.” He also expressed China’s willingness to coordinate with Oman and other Arab states and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) members to support peace and stability in the region.
Sultan Haitham welcomed closer relations with China and commended its contributions to international prosperity and stability. He reiterated Oman’s commitment to the one-China principle and support for China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Highlighting the growing economic relationship, Sultan Haitham noted that China had been Oman’s largest trading partner for many years, while Chinese investment in Oman continued to increase. He expressed Oman’s interest in expanding cooperation in trade, investment, industry, infrastructure, artificial intelligence and science and technology. He also called for greater people-to-people exchanges and closer coordination on international law and peaceful dispute resolution.
Following the talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of cooperation documents covering industrial and supply chains, green development and digital finance. Both sides also issued the Joint Statement between the People’s Republic of China and the Sultanate of Oman on Deepening the China-Oman Strategic Partnership.
Earlier, President Xi hosted an official welcome ceremony featuring a 21-gun salute and a guard of honour review. He also hosted a welcome banquet for Sultan Haitham at the Great Hall of the People. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi attended the events.
Source: Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in the Republic of Singapore
