China indicates presidential summit still on despite Trump’s threat to postpone

China confirmed on Monday that it was continuing talks with the United States regarding President Donald Trump’s planned visit. this monthThis despite Trump suggesting the summit might be postponed to put pressure on China over the Strait of Hormuz.

The U.S. leader linked the meeting to China’s potential role in reopening the strategically important waterway, which Iran effectively closed in retaliation for the U.S.-Israeli war against Tehran.

Lin Jian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said at a press conference that day, “China and the United States are maintaining communication regarding President Trump’s visit to China,” and emphasized, “The diplomacy of the head of state plays an irreplaceable strategic guidance role in China-US relations.”

Lin did not comment on Trump’s specific demands or his comments urging NATO allies and China to help restore transportation through the strait.

Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz have caused major disruption in global shipping and energy markets.

Lin noted that the “tense situation” has affected international trade routes for goods and energy. This is a concern for analysts around the world as oil prices have surged 40-50% since the conflict began.

In particular, China is exposed to crisis as a net importer of oil.

In 2025, the Middle East supplied 57% of China’s direct seaborne crude oil imports, according to analytics firm Kpler. If the strait is blocked for a long period of time, China’s energy security and economic stability could be threatened.

relevant

‘We want to know’

Talking to President Trump Financial Times He said the United States may postpone a visit to China unless Beijing clarifies whether it will support efforts to reopen the strait.

“We want to know” Will Beijing be helpful before your trip? He called the issue a test of China’s willingness to cooperate with a “new coalition” to restore tanker traffic.

The U.S. administration is trying to coordinate international naval support to escort oil tankers through the waterway, a move that President Trump initially ignored but has become more urgent as oil prices soar.

Trump suggested that several countries had approached him about sending troops, although he did not identify them, and indicated that China would be one of the countries invited to participate.