Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for better ties between China and Gulf nations, and for an acceleration in talks towards a free trade agreement.

During the latest round of strategic dialogue between China and the Gulf Cooperation Council, President Xi commented on China’s good and long standing relationship with Gulf nations. Xi called on all parties to boost free trade talks in the New Year. He also called for the construction of the Silk Road economic strip from China to the Gulf region to be sped up, alongside new sea routes. Xi Jinping says China supports the GCC in both the Gulf region and the world.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi co-chaired the dialogue with Kuwait’s First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Sabah Khaled al-Sabah. Al-Sabah says China and the Gulf region are historically connected by the ancient Silk Road, and that new connections must be opened up.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for better ties between China and Gulf nations, and for an acceleration in talks towards a free trade agreement.(Xinhua)