China’s Interests in the Middle East: Challenges And Opportunities for Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this study is to draw attention toward emerging challenges for Pakistan in the Middle East by increasing interests of international actors. The study focuses on the China’s rising interests in the Middle East, China's rapidly proceeding demand for energy and access to international resources has increased prospects for competition in the Middle East. China aims to form a stable trade relation with the Middle East by finalizing a FTA with the GCC economies, for the purpose President Xi's 21st century 'Silk Road' vision expects Chinese companies to invest in Middle Eastern markets, including the upstream oil sector. The study conclude that China’s goal is to hunt energy resources and create investment opportunities for Chinese companies in the Middle East. Pakistan should focus on finding points of convergence, not divergence, it must consider the geopolitical, political, and economic dynamics of the region before formulating any policy.