U.S. officials say Washington plans to press China during President Donald Trump’s talks with Xi Jinping over the Iran-related conflict. The Hindu reports that Trump tells reporters he intends to have a “long talk” with the Chinese leader after arriving in Beijing. Business Standard and the South China Morning Post add that U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, speaking to Fox News while travelling to China, says the United States hopes to convince Beijing to take a “more active role” in resolving the Iran crisis.
Rubio describes the conflict as a major source of instability and argues it poses a particular risk to Asia because the region relies heavily on strategic shipping straits. He frames China’s involvement as aligned with China’s interests and says the goal is for Iran to stop the actions the U.S. is seeking to address in and around the Persian Gulf.
The reports indicate the issue is expected to be raised as part of Trump’s closely watched three-day visit and scheduled rounds of discussions with Xi, with Rubio’s remarks highlighting the U.S. aim to coordinate messaging and influence with China.
