The recent restoration of diplomatic ties between Iran and Saudi Arabia, brokered by China, highlights Beijing's increasing influence in the Middle East. This event underscores a perceived decline in US sway in the region.
China's engagement extends beyond this diplomatic achievement. Its Belt and Road Initiative, launched in 2013, has significantly increased its economic and political presence, encompassing infrastructure projects, technological collaborations, and investments in various sectors.
This multifaceted engagement is viewed as beneficial by regional leaders, who express frustration with US policies.
The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are increasingly seeing China as a more reliable partner compared to the US. China's ability to provide both infrastructure and technology aligns with the GCC's future visions.
The growing cooperation between China and the Middle East necessitates a re-evaluation of the US approach to the region.
For China, at least in the immediate term, perceptions are important. The timing and location of the Saudi-Iranian declaration and China’s positioning as a peace-promoting, responsible mediator are critical. By bringing together two staunch regional rivals as only it could have done, a clear message is being sent to the United States, the Middle East and beyond.
China has become increasingly active in the region, both economically and politically, over the last decade. As tensions rise in Asia and political and economic divisions widen between China and the West, Beijing is becoming even more active in a more welcoming Middle East.
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