The Middle East, a region often at the center of global attention, is experiencing a transformative shift towards political reconciliation and economic development. In recent years, Gulf countries have reignited dialogue and cooperation, Türkiye has mended ties with neighboring nations, and in April 2023, longstanding adversaries Saudi Arabia and Iran restored diplomatic relations. This positive momentum suggests the region is stepping into a new era marked by stability and collaboration.
Amidst the United States scaling back its Middle East strategy, the region is proactively forging stronger alliances with emerging global powers, particularly China, Russia, and India. This strategic pivot, known as \"looking east,\" is now a continuous effort rather than an option. Currently, 20 out of 22 Middle Eastern countries have signed Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) cooperation agreements with China, underscoring the deepening ties between the regions.
Special coordination mechanisms have been established to facilitate BRI cooperation, including the High-Level Chinese-Saudi Joint Committee and the China-Egypt Production Capacity Cooperation Mechanism. Traditional multilateral forums like the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum are also being revitalized to support joint BRI projects. Notable collaborations include the China-Saudi Arabia (Jizan) Industrial Park, Saudi Arabia's Dammam Port, and Türkiye's Kumport Terminal, all of which highlight the tangible benefits of Sino-Middle Eastern partnerships.
Among these partnerships, the collaboration between China and Saudi Arabia stands out. In 2023, bilateral trade between Saudi Arabia and China surpassed $100 billion, continuing its upward trajectory in the first half of the year. This trade volume accounts for a staggering 90 percent of Saudi Arabia's total trade with the Group of Seven (G7) countries, illustrating the significant economic reliance on Chinese markets.
As Middle Eastern nations increasingly look east, the region is poised for sustained growth and enhanced global integration. This strategic realignment not only diversifies their international partnerships but also fosters a more balanced and multipolar world order.
Reference(s):
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