China’s Xi urges faster construction of new energy system as Mideast war disrupts supplies

Chinese President Xi Jinping on Monday called for accelerating the planning and construction of a new energy system as the Middle East war disrupts global energy supplies.

Xi emphasized the importance of hydropower development and ecological protection, as well as the safe and orderly expansion of nuclear power, state broadcaster CCTV reported.

"Our pioneering development of wind and solar power has now proven to be forward-thinking. At the same time, coal-fired power remains the foundation of our energy and should continue to play a supporting role," Xi said, adding that China should adhere to the path of clean and low-carbon development.

China maintains a 1.3 billion-barrel strategic crude reserve, enough for several months, and a diversified power mix that includes nuclear, solar, and wind, while still relying on domestically mined coal.

Xi also said energy issues are critical to development. "A greener, more diversified, and resilient new energy system will provide a strong guarantee for China's energy security and economic development," the report added.

China sourced 35% of its energy from Gulf countries in 2024, paying $413 billion for imports.

Regional tensions have escalated since the US and Israel launched a joint offensive on Iran on Feb. 28, killing more than 1,340 people to date, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Tehran has retaliated with drone and missile strikes targeting Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries hosting US military assets, and restricted the movement of ships through the Strait of Hormuz.

Three Chinese vessels have recently transited the Strait of Hormuz.