By Daniela Lopez
(Editor’s Note: The writer is the Editor of Observer Diplomat an International Affairs and Diplomatic Magazine)
In a world marked by shifting dynamics and evolving relationships, the growing strategic partnership between China and Saudi Arabia shines as a beacon of hope and cooperation. The recent call by Zhu Jie, the defense attaché at the Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia, to strengthen defense and military cooperation between the two nations signifies the deepening ties and the potential for a flourishing future.
The commemoration of the 96th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) provided an opportune moment to celebrate the remarkable journey of the PLA under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. Over the past 96 years, the PLA has achieved significant milestones in military building and has played a crucial role in maintaining world peace and stability.
At the reception held in Riyadh, Zhu Jie expressed heartfelt gratitude towards Saudi Arabia for its unwavering support in the safe evacuation of Chinese citizens from the war-ravaged nation of Sudan. This expression of gratitude reflects the high value that China places on cooperation and friendship with Saudi Arabia.
Amidst the complexities of the modern world, China reaffirms its steadfast commitment to strategic determination and confidence, continuing the path of peaceful development. The pledge to contribute to a world of universal security, common security, and lasting peace resonates with the aspirations of peace-loving nations and people worldwide.
The China-Saudi Arabia relationship has witnessed a remarkable transformation, evolving into a strategic partnership with deepening cooperation in defense and military fields. Both nations share a common interest in maintaining regional stability and security, and this mutual goal has brought them closer on various strategic and practical matters.
China’s approach to international relations, rooted in peaceful development and fostering strong, cooperative ties, reflects its commitment to global harmony. This approach aligns perfectly with the broader foreign policy goals of China, contributing to a multipolar world order where peace and stability are pursued ardently.
As the world undergoes rapid changes, the call to further enhance defense and military cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia bodes well for regional security. By standing united in their commitment to peace and development, the two nations can foster an environment conducive to prosperity and progress.
The deepening of military cooperation between China and Saudi Arabia offers immense potential for promoting regional stability and security. By jointly addressing common challenges, they can bolster their capacity to counter emerging threats effectively.
However, China’s security requirements (increased army size and development of security sectors) contribute to a surge in the export of unique platforms to the Middle East in general and the Gulf in particular. At the same time, despite the drop in oil prices, the defense spending of the Arab Gulf government has progressively climbed in pace with the risks of reference encountered over the last decade. Saudi Arabia’s arms purchases aim to strengthen ties with Beijing in an effort to gain leverage over the US, in part in response to the US’s unwillingness to provide it with specific systems and to minimize its reliance on a single supplier.
China has increased its security footprint in and around the Gulf in recent years: Chinese naval forces were dispatched to the Gulf of Aden (to combat maritime piracy); Chinese ships visited Gulf ports; a naval and aerial support base was established in Djibouti, China’s first outside of its borders; China took over management of a seaport in Pakistan; and China conducted joint military exercises with Iran, Russia, and Saudi Arabia. Furthermore, China-Saudi security cooperation has expanded into new areas. Riyadh’s growing interest in unmanned aerial vehicles, along with the US’s persistent refusal to provide certain capabilities (with an emphasis on offensive vehicles) due to policy constraints, export regulations, and the necessity to respect Israel’s security concerns, has resulted in the procurement of these capabilities from China.
Moreover, the partnership between China and Saudi Arabia extends beyond the realm of defense and military cooperation. Their collaboration extends to economic, cultural, and diplomatic spheres, making it a comprehensive and multifaceted relationship.
The civilian nuclear field is another area of collaboration between China and Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia has recently begun to examine the nuclear road in response to Iran’s nuclear program, as well as for prestige and expanding energy demands. The Kingdom recently announced plans to build a nuclear power plant for electricity generation and water desalination. Riyadh is already planning and has signed a number of cooperation agreements with several countries. Since 2012, relations between Saudi Arabia and China in the nuclear sphere have improved, with a number of memoranda of understanding signed between Beijing and Riyadh, including the establishment of a branch of China National Nuclear Corporation (CNNC) in Riyadh.
China’s engagement in the Middle East and its growing presence in various sectors have facilitated mutual understanding and paved the way for a deeper appreciation of each other’s cultures. Such cultural exchanges foster people-to-people connections and lay a strong foundation for long-lasting friendship between the two nations.
While some concerns and skepticism may surround this partnership, it is vital to view it through a lens of optimism and diplomacy. The world is interconnected, and nations must work together to address global challenges effectively. The China-Saudi Arabia partnership exemplifies the potential of diplomacy and dialogue to foster strong, meaningful relationships between countries.
As China and Saudi Arabia navigate the complexities of the global landscape, they must remain committed to addressing concerns and ensuring responsible cooperation. Transparent dialogue and mutual respect are the cornerstones of a sustainable partnership.
China’s commitment to peaceful development and its role as a key player in international relations provide a positive backdrop for the growing cooperation with Saudi Arabia. By engaging in constructive dialogues and demonstrating a commitment to human rights and global peace, China can lead by example in the international arena.
As we envision a promising future, the China-Saudi Arabia partnership stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and mutual respect. Embracing this partnership with an open mind and a diplomatic approach will undoubtedly pave the way for a world of greater cooperation, harmony, and prosperity. Together, China and Saudi Arabia can be torchbearers of peace and progress in a world that desperately needs it.
