Ukraine invasion: with the US distracted, China may have an ‘opportunity’ to expand economic influence in the Middle East
- With US diplomacy focused on the Ukraine crisis, China could attempt to ‘advance its objectives’ in the Middle East, analyst says
- Other experts contend Chinese companies have a specific agenda in the region, focused on getting materials like oil and gas
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine may give China an “opportunity” to gain influence in the Middle East through its Belt and Road Initiative, with the United States distracted in Europe, analysts said.
However, Beijing is likely to be prudent with any economic overtures, they added.
In January, Chinese foreign Minister Wang Yi held a series of talks with Gulf nations on economic cooperation and regional issues, such as the Iran nuclear deal.
The same month, Syria signed a memorandum of understanding on the Belt and Road Initiative, as the country is seeking post-war reconstruction.
Chinese analysts were also quick to highlight Beijing’s meeting with members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain – in January, as an example of growing economic cooperation.