Xi: China to open up new prospect of relations with Saudi Arabia

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Chinese President Xi Jinping said China will enhance cooperation with Saudi Arabia and open up a new prospect for China and Saudi Arabia's friendly strategic relations in the future.

Xi made the remark when meeting visiting Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud in Beijing on Friday.

During the meeting, President Xi said China and Saudi Arabia have formed a comprehensive and wide-ranging relationship, adding that China sees Riyadh as a good friend and partner and the two countries will continue to enhance their mutual trust and support.

Both leaders agreed to strengthen the synergy of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and the Saudi Vision 2030 and push for pragmatic cooperation on energy, infrastructure construction, finance, high tech and the building of the China-GCC free trade area.

The Chinese leader lent his support to Saudi Arabia's attempts to diversify its economy and praised Riyadh's efforts to safeguard its national sovereignty.

Xi called on China and Saudi Arabia to support each other and promote political mutual trust on issues involving core interests and major concerns.

The two sides should promote counter-terrorism cooperation in the Middle East, strengthen international cooperation, and prevent the spread of extreme ideas, Xi added.

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Mohammed said China is Saudi Arabia's important strategic partner and expressed gratitude for China's support on Saudi's reform and development.

Mohammed also told Xi that Saudi Arabia unswervingly adheres to the one-China policy and respect China's efforts to safeguard its national security and stability.

He added that Riyadh will support the China-proposed BRI and is more than willing to cooperate with Beijing on its future economic plans.