China offers to help Southeast Asia counter impact of Middle East war on energy supplies

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Fan ChenMarch 19, 2026 at 01:25 PM

AI Summary

short article 1 min

China has offered to collaborate with Southeast Asian nations to ensure energy security amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which is impacting global oil and gas supplies. A Chinese foreign ministry spokesman stated China's readiness to strengthen cooperation and coordination to address these energy security issues. The offer comes as the conflict threatens to disrupt fertilizer production and shipping in the Gulf, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical hub for global fertilizer trade. The Philippines reported receiving assurances from China that fertilizer shipments would continue, despite reports of potential export restrictions. China has historically controlled fertilizer exports to manage domestic prices.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Israel 50% Philippines 50% United States ×260% Chinese foreign ministry 60% Iran 60% Lin Jian ×270% Strait of Hormuz 70% Southeast Asia ×280% Middle East ×280% China ×390%

Keywords

energy security 90% southeast asia 80% china 80% middle east war 70% fertiliser 70% oil and gas supplies 60% export restrictions 50% strait of hormuz 40%