WASHINGTON D.C. April 18, 2026 – President Donald J. Trump announced Saturday that Chinese President Xi Jinping is “very happy” the Strait of Hormuz is now open — or rapidly opening — to commercial shipping, and said the development sets the stage for what could be a landmark summit between the two leaders in China.
In a statement posted by the White House on X, Trump quoted himself directly:
“President Xi is very happy that the Strait of Hormuz is open and/or rapidly opening. Our meeting in China will be a special one and, potentially, Historic. I look forward to being with President Xi — Much will be accomplished!”
— President Donald J. Trump
The remarks come just one day after Iran announced the strategic waterway — through which roughly one-fifth of the world’s oil passes — would remain open to commercial vessels for the remainder of a ceasefire period. The announcement followed weeks of heightened U.S.-Iran tensions during which the Trump administration imposed a naval blockade in the region.
Trump has repeatedly framed the reopening as a direct result of U.S. pressure and a major foreign-policy win. By highlighting China’s positive reaction, the president underscored the economic relief the move brings to Beijing, one of Iran’s largest oil customers.
White House officials did not immediately release details on the timing or agenda of Trump’s upcoming trip to China, but the president’s language suggests broad expectations for major diplomatic and economic breakthroughs.
The development is being closely watched by global energy markets and allies in the Middle East as the fragile ceasefire holds.
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