A meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing is expected to center on the ongoing war involving Iran. The United States is increasing pressure on China to use its economic and political influence over Tehran to help end the conflict. China remains Iran’s largest trading partner and has maintained a decades-old alliance with the country.

Earlier this month, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi met with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and expressed Beijing’s readiness to assist in reducing tensions. Despite China’s desire for peace, its economy is already struggling with slow growth and rising unemployment, challenges that predate Trump’s tariff measures. The Middle East conflict has added new strain, with rising oil prices affecting factory costs and export orders.

China has voiced support for Pakistan’s peace plan as part of its measured mediation efforts, while also seeking to avoid direct involvement in the conflict.