Trump seeks Chinese support for possible Iran deal

US President Donald Trump is seeking China’s support for a possible diplomatic agreement with Iran as disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz continue to affect global trade and industry.

Trump has suggested that Chinese President Xi Jinping has a strong interest in helping to resolve the crisis, as the partial reopening of the Strait of Hormuz has not fully restored shipping and the situation continues to affect Chinese industry.

Although China has been less affected because of its strategic oil reserves, Beijing does not want the disruption to continue.

There have been suggestions that China could act as a guarantor in a possible agreement by taking custody of Iran’s enriched uranium or securing Iranian commitments on nuclear weapons for a specified period.

However, China has traditionally avoided direct involvement in overseas conflicts. Beijing may also see some advantage in allowing Trump to deal with domestic political pressure and the economic impact of the crisis in the United States.

China is considered to have significant leverage with Tehran. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi visited Beijing last week for talks.

Trump also has leverage in his dealings with China. He has paused a $14 billion US arms package for Taiwan and could scale it back further if he believes Beijing is helping to secure an agreement with Iran.

No immediate breakthrough is expected during Trump’s visit.

Trump’s primary goal is to leave Beijing with an economic success, although a diplomatic breakthrough on Iran would also be a significant outcome. China may play an important role in achieving that objective.