China has emphasized the need for uninterrupted shipping through the Strait of Hormuz. This statement comes as major European countries seem to be accepting that ships may need to pay fees to Iran and Oman.
Guo Jiakun, a spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry, mentioned at a press briefing in Beijing, “It's important to restore safe and free passage in the strait soon, as it benefits everyone involved.”
He added, “We need a fair solution to the issues at the Strait of Hormuz, and the international community's concerns should be properly addressed.”
Earlier reports suggested that European officials expect some form of service fee to arise following the conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran.
Some Gulf Arab officials share this view privately, although this doesn't represent the official stance of their governments, according to sources who chose to remain anonymous.
It remains uncertain what type or amount of fees could be acceptable. The US and Gulf Arab nations are adamant that Iran and Oman should not be allowed to impose any charges for passage through Hormuz. They worry this could set a precedent, leading other nations to impose fees on different waterways.
In March, Beijing urged all parties in the conflict to ensure safe passage for vessels through the Strait of Hormuz.
As the largest importer of oil and gas in the world, China is particularly vulnerable to tensions in the Middle East. The country relies heavily on the Persian Gulf region for its oil and gas supplies, which must pass through the narrow Strait of Hormuz.