China in the Middle East

Xi Jinping’s recent visit to Riyadh resulted in a rare diplomatic rebuke from Tehran. 

China-Saudi Arabia relations are both deeper and more limited than recent coverage suggests.

Xi Jinping will attend the first China-Arab States summit as both sides see an opportunity to advance relations. 

Chinese companies, acting out of both economic and geostrategic motives, are providing much of the MENA region’s digital infrastructure.

Beijing had the edge in the early stages of the pandemic, but the preference for mRNA vaccines amid the Omicron variant has helped boost U.S. vaccine diplomacy.

China has struck a careful balance between regional rivals, especially Iran and the Gulf. But amid shifting dynamics, staying neutral may not be an option.

A recent trip by China’s defense minister featured key stops on the planned International North South Transport Corridor, India’s answer to the Belt and Road.

Iran may be forced to “Look East” in the wake of the U.S. withdrawal from the JCPOA, but the Chinese government continues to look in many directions at once.

Insights from Jonathan Fulton.

After the rapprochement, China’s investment momentum in Israel was overtaken by the Emiratis - just like the U.S. wanted.

China remains a marginal player in the region's arms market, but its presence is steadily growing.

Damascus may be keen to seek Chinese funds to rebuild, but interest from Beijing and Chinese firms will be tempered by caution.