China is close to Iran and is the main buyer of its oil. Iran has largely shut the strait to ships apart from its own since the US-Israeli war on Iran began on February 28, causing the biggest-ever disruption to global energy supplies.

While not immune to disruptions in Hormuz, Beijing has used numerous approaches to reduce its vulnerability

Heading into the summit, Beijing and Washington will likely reaffirm their shared intention to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and restore stability in the region.

US and Chinese presidents agree the strait must be open for the free flow of energy