THE China-brokered agreement between the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was considered a diplomatic victory for China in proving its mediating abilities after it was able to restore ties between the two influential rivals.
It also marked an important shift in great power competition at a time when the United States also made its presence felt in the region.
The first meeting of the Saudi-China-Iran Tripartite Committee took place in Beijing on Friday.
China reiterated its willingness to continue playing a constructive role to assist Saudi and Iran’s efforts to improve their relations.
In 2016, Iran and Saudi Arabia severed diplomatic ties as a result of political and economic struggle exacerbated by religious differences.
On March 10, 2023, both countries restored ties through China-brokered talks held in Beijing.