U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping have united in their opposition to imposing tolls on international waterways. This agreement comes as Iran leverages control over the Strait of Hormuz in negotiations, indicating a convergence of interests between the U.S. and China.
According to Yonhap News on the 26th, a fact sheet released by the White House on the 25th (local time) stated, "The two leaders agreed that no country or organization should be allowed to impose fees on the passage of international waterways."
In the context of ongoing tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, both the U.S. and China have expressed their opposition to tolls on international waterways. This stance appears to be a direct response to Iran's claims of imposing de facto tolls on vessels navigating the strait.
Notably, China, which has maintained a strategic relationship with Iran, has also drawn a line against restrictions on international waterway passage. Given China's heavy reliance on oil imports and maritime trade, prolonged disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz could lead to increased energy prices and logistics costs.
Prior to the summit, China had publicly called for the swift reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. On September 16, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi in Beijing, emphasizing the need to reopen the strait to stabilize international energy transport and supply chains. He also urged both the U.S. and Iran to exercise restraint and resume negotiations.
However, since the agreement did not specifically mention Iran or the Strait of Hormuz, some analysts suggest that the U.S.-China consensus may not immediately undermine Iran's control capabilities or intentions in the region.
Additionally, during the summit, the two leaders exchanged views on the risks and benefits of artificial intelligence (AI) and agreed to establish a communication channel for dialogue in the event of related incidents. They also concurred that Iran must never possess nuclear weapons.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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