China and Saudi Arabia are swiftly advancing their military co-operation, marked by recent high-level meetings between top defence officials from both countries. This burgeoning partnership reflects a shared commitment to enhancing strategic defence ties and preserving international security.
On June 25, 2024, Saudi Minister of Defense Prince Khalid bin Salman met with Zhang Youxia, vice chairman of the Central Military Commission of China, in Beijing. Their discussions focused on strengthening military and defence cooperation between the two nations. This meeting was a significant step in fortifying the military partnership that both countries have been nurturing over recent years .
Prince Khalid also engaged in talks with his Chinese counterpart, Lieutenant General Dong Jun. They deliberated on bolstering the strategic defence partnership to align with the interests and aspirations of both Saudi and Chinese leaderships. Additionally, they discussed joint co-ordination efforts to preserve international peace and security, underscoring their commitment to global stability .
The Saudi delegation, which included senior civilian and military officials such as the Saudi Chief of the General Staff, Commander of the Strategic Missile Force, and Military Attaché at the Saudi Embassy in Beijing, demonstrated the high level of commitment to these discussions. Similarly, the Chinese side was represented by senior military leaders, highlighting the importance both nations place on this burgeoning relationship.
Military co-operation between China and Saudi Arabia has been progressing steadily in recent years. Joint naval training exercises and China’s participation in Saudi defence exhibitions, where it showcased a wide range of military equipment including armed and unarmed drones, fighter jets, missiles, and air defence systems, are just some examples of their deepening ties.
While the United States remains the top arms exporter to Saudi Arabia, China’s expanding defence exports to the Kingdom and other countries in the region signify a shifting dynamic in global military partnerships. This growing military relationship between China and Saudi Arabia has raised concerns amongst the US and its Western allies, as they watch China’s increasing influence in the Middle East.
In summary, the recent high-level meetings and the steady progression of defence ties indicate that China-Saudi military cooperation is on a “fast track.” Both nations are keen to deepen their strategic partnership, signalling a new era of military collaboration that could reshape regional and global power structures.
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