Which Arab Leaders are Attending the China Forum in Beijing and Why?
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Roshan Amiri
- . May 27, 2024
- . Update: May 27, 2024 9:09 pm
A group of eminent Arab leaders is in Beijing this week for the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum’s 10th Ministerial Conference. In the developing partnership between China and the Arab world, this momentous occasion promises to strengthen bonds and open the door for future collaboration.
A delegation of influential people: who is coming and why?
Many well-known Arab leaders are scheduled to attend the conference, each with a distinct strategic goal:
- King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa of Bahrain: The US ally Bahrain wants to leverage China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) for infrastructure development and expand its economic ties. The fact that King Hamad is here emphasises how closely the Arab world and China are becoming economically connected.
- President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt: Egypt tries to strike a balance in its ties with China and the West. It is most likely that President el-Sisi is participating to get Chinese investments in Egypt’s energy and infrastructure industries.
- Tunisian President Kais Saied: China’s knowledge in digital infrastructure and artificial intelligence will help Tunisia, with its booming IT sector. The fact that President Saied is here indicates Tunisia’s desire to work with China in these developing areas.
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan: Key oil producer and international commercial centre the United Arab Emirates wants to fortify its strategic partnership with China. With Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed here, the UAE is making clear that it intends to take advantage of China’s economic might and technological advancements.
Beyond Bilateral Interests: A Regional Issues Focus
The forum provides a venue for discussing more general regional issues while individual countries work on their own agendas. A two-state solution is expected to be discussed, and China will reiterate its support for it. Furthermore, discussions about energy cooperation, terrorist measures, and regional security are about to take front stage.
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Forward Looking: Creating a Collaborative Future
China-Arab ties have made a big progress with the 10th Ministerial Conference. Prominent Arab leaders participating highlights the growing importance of this alliance and its ability to promote regional stability, technical innovation, and economic prosperity. Global observers will closely watch as the meeting progresses to see how these countries carve out a future of cooperation and prosperity.
