Having signed a 25-year comprehensive strategic partnership agreement with Iran almost two years ago, China is due to discuss additional economic cooperation. But for the most part, the arrangements remain vague as geopolitical tensions rise.  

Arriving in Saudi Arabia last month, Chinese President Xi Jinping attended a series of meetings with the leadership of the Gulf states and pledged to create a “collective security framework” to stabilize the region. Following Xi's summit with Arab leaders, a joint communique was also issued which undermined Beijing’s strategic partner, Iran, by showing solidarity with some regional countries demands from Tehran. 

In the past, Beijing has maintained a safe distance from conflicts in the Middle East, but the joint statement clearly expressed support for the UAE's territorial claims.

"The leaders affirmed their support for all peaceful efforts, including the initiative and endeavors of the United Arab Emirates to reach a peaceful solution to the issue of the three islands — Greater Tunb, Lesser Tunb and Abu Musa — through bilateral negotiations in accordance with the rules of international law, and to resolve this issue in accordance with international legitimacy," the statement read.