Chinese and US Foreign Ministers Discuss Middle East in Phone Call

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the ongoing situation in the Middle East during a telephone conversation on Thursday, September 17, 2026. The high-level diplomatic exchange between Beijing and Washington addressed critical regional developments and broader bilateral relations.

The phone call between the two top diplomats occurred just one day after Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi hosted Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi for official meetings in Beijing. Following those discussions in the Chinese capital, Wang engaged with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio to review regional dynamics.

During the conversation, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi emphasized that both nations should prepare for the next stage of high-level exchanges in a spirit of equality, mutual respect, and mutual benefit. Wang further noted that bilateral ties have generally moved forward along the track of constructive strategic stability for some time.

Addressing the volatile situation in the region, Wang Yi stated that China encourages Iran and the United States to stay rational and exercise restraint. He also called on the relevant parties to take effective measures to open the Strait of Hormuz as soon as possible amidst ongoing maritime security concerns.

This diplomatic contact serves as a precursor to a planned meeting between US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington. The upcoming presidential summit is anticipated to further address the complex geopolitical landscape and strategic stability between the two global superpowers.