China's Diplomatic Dance: ASEAN-GCC-China Summit Unfolds

Chinese Premier Li Qiang will visit Malaysia in May for a summit involving Southeast Asian and Arab nations, aiming to counter U.S. tariffs. The ASEAN-GCC-China summit follows President Xi's visit to Malaysia and precedes crucial U.S.-China trade talks. China seeks allies to resist U.S. economic pressures.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang is set to attend a summit in Malaysia with Southeast Asian and Arab nations, aiming to counteract U.S. tariff policies, according to sources close to Reuters. The diplomatic move reflects Beijing's broader strategy of solidifying ties with major global economies amid ongoing trade tensions initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump.

The ASEAN-GCC-China summit is scheduled for May 27, following the ASEAN Summit on May 26 in Kuala Lumpur. While China has not officially announced its delegation, the summit will include representatives from the Gulf Cooperation Council, a bloc of six influential Arab states. This diplomatic engagement follows President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Malaysia, where he encouraged ASEAN nations to stand against excessive tariffs.

The meetings will occur against the backdrop of U.S.-China trade discussions in Switzerland, which may pave the way for further negotiations between the world's two largest economies. China's participation in the Malaysian summit underscores its effort to enhance trade ties with ASEAN and GCC countries. China's foreign ministry confirmed its intent to strengthen mutual cooperation and uphold the global free trade system.

(With inputs from agencies.)