The Chinese Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, had discussions with Iranian diplomat Araghchi, his first visit to China since the beginning of the war in Iran.

Wang Yi, the Chinese Foreign Minister, met on Wednesday with Araghchi, an Iranian diplomat, during his first visit to China since the outbreak of the war in Iran, a conflict that has caused a major shock in global oil supply. This meeting takes place a week before the summit between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping, scheduled for May 14-15, where the war in Iran will be a central topic. China is an important supporter of Iran, buying about 90% of its oil exports. The two countries have maintained close cooperation during the conflict, with several phone calls between their foreign ministers. Araghchi's visit comes in the context of increased economic pressures from the U.S. on Iran, especially regarding the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, a crucial route for oil transport. Although Xi Jinping has called for the reopening of the strait, Beijing has refused to assist the U.S. Navy in this regard. Next week's summit will provide an opportunity for direct discussions between the leaders of the two major powers.