China and the Gulf Cooperation Council Countries: Strategic Partnership in a Changing World

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This book examines Chinas relations with member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council. It highlights the depth of Chinas ties with the region bilaterally and multilaterally on a five-dimensional approach: political relations, trade relations, energy security, security cooperation, and cultural relations. Regarding each of these criteria, the GCC countries enjoy a strategic significance to Chinas national security, vital interests, territorial integrity, sovereignty, regime survival, and economic prosperity. China has been an integral part of the political developments on the Arabian Gulf scene since the 1950s. Their bilateral ties have grown steadily since the Economic Reform Era, culminating in strategic partnership two decades later. China and its Arab Gulf partners have embarked on an ambitious economic cooperation that includes joint ventures in oil upstreaming and downstreaming, mammoth highway and railroad projects, construction projects, and above all, strategic security coordination in reference to security threats. Both sides are also engaged in a process of revival of the Silk Road within the Belt and the Road framework. Sino-Gulf bilateral trade relations reached $159,419.20 billion in 2014. The two sides aim to increase it to $600 billion by 2020, a goal within reach given the fact that they are concluding the China-GCC Free Trade Agreement, which will transform their bilateral ties.

Reviews

A convincing and state-of-the-art narrative of the growing importance of the Chinas rise in global politics and economics, plus seeking securing energy resources, and its relations with the Arab Gulf States, who are energy rich. Because of its expanding economy, Beijings relations with the Arab States has become more intensive and important for the Middle East in particular and the broader world. This book explores Chinas growing involvement in the region, while also describing new opportunities for Arab Gulf States to pursue new political and business opportunities. This book will be essential reading to all those involved in international politics and economics, global energy trade, and Middle East- China relations. -- Kenneth R. Rutherford, James Madison University
This is a comprehensive work on Chinas strategic partnership with the Arab Gulf countries, members of the Gulf Cooperation Council. It provides an in-depth analysis of Chinas ties with the GCC bilaterally and multilaterally. This book is a necessary read to area specialists, students, and practitioners in the areas of Gulf Studies, Chinas intentional relations and Sino-Greater Middle Eastern relations. -- Aref M. Alkhattar, California University of Pennsylvania
An important contribution to our understanding of Chinas growing relations with this vital region in world politics. -- Dennis V. Hickey, Missouri State University

Author Bio

Dr. Muhamad S. Olimat is professor of international relations and Middle East studies at the Emirates Diplomatic Academy.