BEIJING, 16 May. - (ANA) - Iranian media reported that Tehran allowed Chinese vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz as US President Donald Trump praised “extremely positive” talks with his Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping during a high-profile visit to Beijing.

 

"Following a decision by the Islamic republic, a number of Chinese vessels have been allowed to pass through the Strait of Hormuz under Iranian-managed transit protocols," the Tasnim news agency said.

 

It added that the passage, which was requested by Beijing, began on Wednesday evening after "an understanding on Iranian management protocols".

 

Fars news agency also carried a similar report, while Iranian state television said "more than 30 ships" had been allowed to pass, although it was not clear if they were all Chinese.

 

The passage of ships comes with US President Donald Trump visiting China, where he met counterpart Xi Jinping on Thursday for talks that included the Iran war.

 

Ties have been complicated since the United States and Israel launched the war with Iran, which has relied on China as its top buyer of oil, on February 28.

 

Trump said Thursday he had invited Xi to visit the White House on September 24.   - (ANA) -

 

AB/ANA/16 May 2026 - - -