Wang Huiyao
As global conflicts simmer, China’s role as a mediator is gaining prominence, with its economic influence and diplomatic connections helping it to foster dialogue. Last month, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba met his Chinese counterpart Wang Yi in Guangzhou. During their talks, Wang reiterated China’s commitment to promoting a political resolution to the Russian war on Ukraine, a stance that received a positive response from Kuleba.
China’s significant influence largely stems from its economic connections with the conflicting parties. During the Guangzhou talks, Wang emphasised China’s role as Ukraine’s largest trading partner. According to Chinese customs, bilateral trade was at US$6.81 billion last year. Wang also pointed out China’s position as the primary importer of Ukrainian agricultural products and underscored Ukraine’s early participation in the Belt and Road Initiative.
On his part, Kuleba acknowledged the importance of the bilateral relationship, calling the two not just strategic partners but also important economic and trade partners. As the conflict in Ukraine grinds on, Kyiv appears to see Beijing’s influence as increasingly vital. China, with its infrastructure expertise, could play a significant role in Ukraine’s post-war reconstruction.
At the same time, China’s position as Russia’s top trading partner, with bilateral trade rising to US$240.1 billion last year, further solidifies its unique role as a potential neutral mediator. This economic interdependence with both nations gives China leverage that few other countries can match.
China’s economic diplomacy scored a notable success a year ago when it brokered the restoration of ties between long-standing rivals Iran and Saudi Arabia. As a major trading partner and the largest oil customer of both nations, China wielded significant influence. This economic leverage was bolstered by major bilateral agreements: a 25-year cooperation deal with Iran reached in 2021 and a strengthening of its comprehensive strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia in 2022.
China’s deep economic ties with these Middle Eastern powers provided both the means and the motivation to push for their reconciliation. As Israel’s third-largest trading partner, and with bilateral trade volume reaching US$14.5 billion last year, China can also – I have reason to believe – play a significant role in promoting a peaceful resolution to the Gaza crisis, potentially offering a path to dialogue where traditional diplomacy has faltered.
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