In recent years, China has solidified its position as one of the main partners in the Persian Gulf by expanding its economic and diplomatic presence. A research article prepared by Dr. Farajollah Ahmadi and Narges Khatoon Mirhosseini at the University of Tehran explores various aspects of this policy.
Reasons for China's Increased Presence in the Persian Gulf
The findings of this research indicate that China's growing need for energy, the development of potential markets, and the maintenance of security for trade routes are among the most important factors for this country's presence and expansion in the Persian Gulf. Instead of relying on military presence, China is expanding its relations with the countries in this region by utilizing economic, commercial, investment, and diplomatic tools.
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According to the article's results, China's oil exports from the Persian Gulf region have increased from about 1.5 million barrels per day in 2000 to over 5 million barrels per day in 2023. This increase has been particularly strengthened by signing investment contracts in various energy sectors with countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.
Chinese Tools for Economic Influence
Researchers have also pointed to the development of bilateral cooperation, investment in infrastructure, participation in transportation projects, and presence in regional mechanisms as the most important tools for China to increase its economic and political influence in the Persian Gulf. These actions have helped China create mutual economic dependence with the Gulf countries alongside energy.
This article specifically refers to China's balanced policy towards different countries in the region. By maintaining relations with countries such as Iran and Saudi Arabia and avoiding direct involvement in ideological disputes, China seeks to increase its influence in the Persian Gulf. China's mediation in the Iran-Saudi Arabia agreement is an example of this approach.
In the conclusion of this article, China's foreign policy in the Persian Gulf is described as a "real and calculated operation" pursued through multilateral economic diplomacy. This approach has helped China to be recognized as one of the important trading partners in the region and to strengthen its role in the political equations of the Persian Gulf.
This article was published in the Journal of Historical Science Research at the University of Tehran, Volume 17, Issue 2, Serial Number 40, Fall and Winter 1404.
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