The Chinese government thinks U.S. policy towards the Middle East is misguided. Citing the invasion of Iraq, support for political transitions, and a willingness to embroil itself in regional conflicts, Beijing often implies that the United States destabilizes the Middle East.
Stability lies at the heart of China’s engagement in the Middle East. Until now, China has enjoyed the benefit of both physical and political distance from the Middle East, having no interest in navigating political conflicts and dealing with unstable regimes. This has given it the freedom to criticize the state of affairs, all the while increasing its economic footprint throughout the Gulf, Levant, and North Africa. Over time, Middle Eastern petroleum and natural gas became essentials for maintaining China’s economy. This resulted in the region becoming of greater strategic value.
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