China's Wang Yi speaks with Saudi foreign minister Prince Faisal

Chinese State Councillor and Foreign Minister Wang Yi has held talks with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan in Riyadh in which both sides pledged to work together economically and expressed solidarity on matters of sovereignty.

Wang said he viewed the two countries as comprehensive strategic partners and that relations are continuing on a positive trajectory. Given geo-political shifts in the Middle East and changes in U.S. policies in the region, China-Saudi Arabia relations have gained in prominence over recent years. Wang stressed the importance to both side of communication, safeguarding common interests and contributing to the development of world peace and stability.

China supports Saudi Arabia in safeguarding national sovereignty, security and stability, as well as playing a greater role in international and regional affairs, he said.

He also criticised those who sought to interfere in the country's internal matters.

Politicians in the U.S. and European Union have called for action against Riyadh following the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. A trial in the Kingdom concluded the murder, which took place in its embassy in Turkey, was perpetrated by a group of security service operatives acting without authority from the government.

Prince Faisal responded that international law clearly prohibited foreign powers from attempting to influence domestic affairs in other countries.

Wang said that China is willing to strengthen cooperation between the "Belt and Road" initiative and Saudi Arabia's "Vision 2030", a project aimed at modernizing Saudi Arabia and taking advantage of its geographical position between three continents. Both sides pledged to work together towards a Free Trade Area with the Gulf Cooperation Council countries.

Trade, investment, infrastructure 5G, artificial intelligence, big data are all areas where the two sides can further their collaboration, Wang said.

China also expressed its support for a Saudi Arabian initiative, unveiled this week, to resolve the conflict underway in Yemen, which is causing an additional humanitarian crisis amid the coronavirus pandemic.