In this episode of China-MENA, titled "China's Challenging Role in US Policy in MENA," join our host Jonathan Fulton featuring Dana Stroul, director of research and senior fellow at the Washington Institute for Near East Policy, as they explore China's evolving role and its impact on US policy in the Middle East and North Africa. This episode delves into global partnerships like the US-UAE-G42-Microsoft collaboration, the strategic significance of 5G technology and cloud computing, and the economic factors supporting Iran. Dana also discusses the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum and recent geopolitical events.


Join us for an insightful discussion on the future of US and allied strategies in the region.


Takeaways

• US vs. China in Regional Influence
• Importance of International Order
• US Strategic Partnerships
• China’s Regional Impact

Quotes

"China, as the sole competitor shaping the global order, inspires us to uphold equity, cooperation, and shared prosperity." - Dana Stroul

“The importance of the Rules-Based International Order lies in preventing unilateral changes or use of force to alter recognized boundaries" - Dana Stroul


Featured in the Episode

Dana Stroul
Research Director, The Washington Institute for Near East Policy
Guest LinkedIn: Dana Stroul | LinkedIn

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Assistant Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton


Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:51 - Navigating Biden's China Challenge in the Middle East
08:46 - Safeguarding Strategic Partnerships Amidst China's Rise
11:41 - Exploring China's Economic Development
15:00 - Contrasting US and China Infrastructure Support
20:19 - Assessing China's Trade Influence
22:23 - Impact of the International Order on Gulf Economies
24:30 - Insights from the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum
29:18 - China's Prioritization of its Immediate Periphery
34:04 - Cooperation and Countering Iran's Influence
38:19 - Iran's Behavior Changes and China's Role39:51 - Evading Sanctions: Iran, Russia, and China
42:22 - Outro

In this episode of China-MENA, titled “From the Red Sea to the Indo-Pacific: Expanding Cooperation Between the Gulf and Asia," host Jonathan Fulton engages in a compelling conversation with Dr. Hasan Alhasan, a senior fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. They discuss China's role in Saudi Arabia's energy sectors, the impact of Indian and Chinese diasporas in the UAE, and India's naval presence in the Gulf. Dr. Alhasan also explores the Gulf States' views on the Indo-Pacific, defense and geoeconomic priorities, and the influence of the US, China, and India on Gulf alliances.


Join us to understand how Gulf-Asia cooperation addresses future challenges and opportunities, from the Red Sea to the Indo-Pacific and beyond.


Takeaways

• Chinese Involvement in the Gulf
• Regional Geopolitical Tensions
• Indo-Pacific and Global Power Dynamics

Quotes

“'A realm where defense and geoeconomics distinctively part ways, shaping unique alliances and rivalries.” - Dr. Hasan Alhasan

“The Gulf States perceive the varied and vibrant Indo-Pacific through the distinct lens of their own interests, seizing each opportunity uniquely.” - Dr. Hasan Alhasan


Featured in the Episode

Dr. Hasan Alhasan
Senior Fellow for Middle East Policy at the IISS
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasan-t-alhasan
Guest Website: Dr Hasan Alhasan

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Assistant Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton


Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:53 - Exploring Gulf-Asia Economic Ties.
04:07 - Gulf States' Quest for Global Indispensability.
07:41 - Saudi Arabia's Drive for Economic Influence.
11:48 - India's Leadership in the Global South.
14:49 - Gulf States' Strategic Engagements with China, India.
18:28 - India's Naval Strategy and Evacuations.23:02 - Gulf States' Distanced Relationship with Asia.
27:11 - Regional Competition and Strategic Shifts.
31:34- India Expands Indo-Pacific Framework.
35:43 - Assessing Indo-Pacific's Impact on Gulf Security.
40:43 - Geoeconomics and Alliance Dynamics.
43:43 - Gulf States Prefer US AI, Diverse Partnerships.
45:58 - Outro

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In this episode of China-MENA titled “The View from New Delhi: Can IMEC rival China’s Belt and Road?”, our host Jonathan Fulton and guests Ambassador Navdeep Suri and expert Kabir Taneja explore the India, Middle East, Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) and its ties to China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). We unravel India's significant strategic interests in the Middle East and how these regions perceive India's expanded role in driving economic prosperity and enhancing regional security. Join us for an enlightening conversation that bridges continents and cultures on the China MENA podcast.



Takeaways

• India, Middle East, Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC)
• India's Strategic Interests in the Middle East
• Regional Dynamics and Diplomatic Engagements

Quotes

“IMEC propels us towards future-proof economies, blending technology and energy integration.” - Navdeep Suri 

"The geopolitical dynamics of the Middle East offer both a landscape of opportunities and a complex set of challenges for India."- Kabir Taneja 



Featured in the Episode

Navdeep Suri
Former Ambassador of India to UAE & Egypt, High Commissioner to Australia
Guest LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/navdeep-suri-2930452b
Guest Website:  Navdeep Suri

Kabir Taneja
Fellow Strategic Studies Program, Observer Research Foundation
Guest LinkedIn: https://in.linkedin.com/in/kabirtaneja

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Assistant Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton



Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:39 - Geopolitical and Geoeconomic Considerations
03:16 - Challenges and Ongoing Interest
07:17 - IMEC's Focus on Technology in Transportation
11:28 - Economic Growth in Gulf Linked to India
14:11 - Growing Strategic Relationships in UAE, Saudi Arabia
17:55 - Exploring Potential Funding Sources
19:11 - Positive Momentum in the Region
25:12 - India's Role in Global Supply Chains
29:51 - Risk Distribution and US-China Contest
31:11 - Outro

In this episode, China vs the IMEC Corridor in the Middle East, Dr. Jean-Loup Samaan from the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore joins to discuss minilateral initiatives' impacts in the region. Explore the ongoing significance of the International Maritime Exercise (IMEC), Israel's post-Gaza war role, and complexities of regional dynamics. Unpack France's strategic trilateral partnership with the UAE and India to navigate tensions with China. Join us for a deep dive into these shifts, evaluating their implications on alliances and power balance in the Middle East on China-Mena.


Takeaways:

• International Maritime Exercise Initiative (IMEC) and Geopolitical Context
• France's Strategic Involvement in IMEC
• Uncertainties Surrounding IMEC

Quotes

"The benefit of mini laterals is creating new discussion mechanisms among countries, crucial in regions like the Middle East lacking strong security frameworks."-Jean-Loup Samaan

“The introduction of new methods brings hope and progress in the absence of a strong security structure.."-Jean-Loup Samaan


Featured in the Episode

Dr. Jean-Loup Samaan
Linkedin: https://sg.linkedin.com/in/jean-loup-samaan-512a782
Website: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/jean-loup-samaan/

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton


Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:23 - Exploring Middle East Mini Laterals
05:41 - Analyzing the US-led I2U2 Initiative
06:58 - Middle Eastern Caution Towards a New Quad
11:28 - Research Challenges in a Changing Middle East
15:04 - Jordan's Vital Role in Regional Stability
18:37 - Unpacking China's Regional Influence
23:35 - Shifting Foreign Policies Amid US-China Competition
26:31 - Innovations in Security via Mini Laterals
30:08 - Insights on Middle Eastern Politics and China's Responses
35:28 - UAE and India: Infrastructural Investments and Rebranding
38:27 - Issues with IMEC Format and Financing Concerns
40:24 - Uncertainties Surrounding Israel's Role
43:12 - Outro

Join us on China-Mena as we delve into Xi Jinping's political philosophy and its effects on the Middle East and North Africa. Discover Xi's global vision, autocratic alliances, and conflicts with leaders like India's Modi. With expert insights from Steve Zhang, we'll unravel Xi Jinping Thought, explore the Belt and Road Initiative, and China's diplomatic strategies. Delve into power dynamics, internal party debates, and Xi Jinping's quest for superpower status, exploring its impact on the MENA region.

Takeaways:

• Xi Jinping's Vision versus Other Global South Leaders
• China's Redefinition of International Order
• The Ideology of Xi Jinping Thought
• Global Diplomacy and Foreign Policy under Xi Jinping
• Belt and Road Initiative and Global South Relations

Quotes

"Let's aim to radiate beauty, not just for ourselves but for the Global South and the world. - Steve Tsang

"Embrace and uphold Xi's leadership and political thought, fostering unity and determination, even in discomfort." - Steve Tsang


Featured in the Episode

Steve Tsang
Director of the SOAS China Institute
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-tsang-3b937012/
Website: https://www.soas.ac.uk/about/steve-tsang

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
04:17 - China's political evolution under Mao and beyond.
09:16 - Evolving Chinese economic system: state vs private.
12:19 - Xi Jinping requires widespread support for his ideology.
14:39 - Xi Jinping's vision: unity, control, national rejuvenation.
21:32 - Xi Jinping aims to reshape global power dynamics.
24:07 - China leading democratization of international order, global South.
29:58 - Overview of China's global engagement and state-centric approach.
34:03 - Global South: diverse, India-China tension, leadership struggle.
39:15 - Navigating Soft Power and Wolf Warrior Diplomacy Under Xi Jinping
44:58 - Steering China's Assertive Stance and Western Relations
49:10 - Outro

Join us as we dive deep into China's maritime dynamics with Isaac B. Kardon, a top expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Isaac's expertise in maritime disputes, global port development, and PLA activities sheds light on China's evolving role in shaping international waters.Discover Isaac's groundbreaking book on China's maritime strategies and delve into his research on China's impact beyond its shores. Uncover China's ambitions in global waters, from deep-sea mining to infrastructure development with dual implications.

Tune in for an engaging discussion on China's maritime might and its implications for the global order.

Takeaways:

• China's Maritime Expansion
• Global Maritime Strategy
• Maritime Capabilities and International Maritime Order
• Naval Presence in the Middle East
• Commercial Ports and Industrial Parks
• Geopolitical Implications

Quotes

"The power differentials have become significantly important. It has made your ability to resort to international law as a regional actor less effective and more diluted." - Isaac B. Kardon

"China is heavily invested in transportation infrastructure due to its economic priorities as the world's largest trading nation."-Isaac B. Kardon

Featured in the Episode

Isaac B. Kardon
Senior Fellow For China Studies At The Carnegie Endowment For International Peace
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-b-kardon-7ba90416/
Website: https://www.isaacbkardon.com/

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction

07:08 - Disrupting Norms: China's Impact on the International Maritime Order
11:17 - Probing Regional Responses to China's
13:26 - Delving into China's Emphasis on Sovereignty Concerns
18:42 - Shifting Tides: Increasing PLA Deployments and Global Dynamics
20:14 - Navigating Challenges: China's Maritime Interests and Complexities
24:58 - The Precarious Balance: China's Posture Changes and Potential Conflicts
28:05 - Strategic Stronghold: Djibouti's Significance in Chinese Diplomacy
30:25 - Bridging the Divide: Chinese Perspectives on Overseas Actions
34:56 - Anticipating Support: Political and Security Pathways for China
39:50 - Economic Priorities: Balancing Development and Security in China
44:05 - Strategic Insights: Evaluating Military Missions and Facilities
45:27 - Tactical Transactions: Chinese Military Utilization of Commercial Spaces
47:49 - Outro

Welcome back to the China-Mena podcast! In today's episode, titled "Middle East Instability: A Chinese Perspective," our host Jonathan Fulton and guest Chuchu Zhang explore China's evolving role in the region. They discuss recent events, including the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and China's growing presence, and how these shape China's approach to the Middle East. Gain valuable insights into the complex geopolitical landscape and global power dynamics. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion!

Takeaways

• Chinese View of Palestinian-Israeli Conflict
• Testing US Hegemony in the Middle East
• Overlapping Interests with the United States
• Middle Eastern Actors' Diversification of Partnerships
• Concerns About Regional Stability and Conflict

Quotes

"The reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran reminds us that sectarian confrontation in the region is not inevitable, transcending the need to highlight China's greatness." - Chuchu Zhang

"There are common interests promoting peace, but it's not a comprehensive solution to all problems. Yet, there is another perspective on promoting peace through development." - Chuchu Zhang

Featured in the Episode

Chuchu Zhang
Associate Professor of International Relations in the School of International Relations and Public Affairs at Fudan University

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
00:26 - Analyzing China's Role in the Middle East - Insights from an Expert
04:28 - China's Collaboration in Belt and Road Development
08:38 - Exploring China's Growing Involvement in Middle Eastern Affairs
12:44 - Spotlight on Current Middle East-China Relations
16:01 - The Rising Importance of the Middle East
18:42 - Examining US-Israel Goals, China's Concerns, and Global Impact
20:46 - Chinese Leaders' Perspectives on a US-Centered Middle East
24:07 - Unpacking China's Presence in the Middle East and Its Implications
27:44 - Proxy Warfare, Non-State Actors, and China's Dilemma Summarized
30:57 - Major Powers' Engagement with Armed Groups
35:26 - China's Preference for Bilateral Relations in the Middle East
39:58 - Debating the Interpretation of China's Regional Cooperation Proposal
41:19 - Seeking Flexibility: China's and Middle East's Mutual Goal
44:25 - Outro

Welcome to the China-Mena podcast, where we explore China's foreign policy in the Middle East and North Africa. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton and guest Kerry Brown discuss the domestic drivers shaping China's international engagements. They unravel the complexities of China's internal landscape, including the middle class aspirations and the impact of Xi Jinping's leadership. They also analyze China's growing influence in the Middle East, shedding light on its diplomatic decision-making and potential implications for the region. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of China's foreign policy strategy and domestic underpinnings.

Takeaways

• China's Domestic Drivers of Foreign Policy in MENA
• China's Core Interests and Soft Power Projection in MENA
• China's Global Role and Soft Power Challenges
• China's Influence in the Middle East and Domestic Influences on Foreign Policy

Quotes

"It's strange how China tries to change public opinion while facing an image problem. People love their cuisine and kung fu, but the political system makes it challenging for them to win hearts."- Kerry Brown"

Understanding China is complex, but it's crucial to find a balanced perspective in Western discourse."- Kerry Brown

Featured in the Episode
Kerry Brown
Professor of Chinese Studies, and Director,Lau China Institute, King's College, London
Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kerrybrown
Website: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/kerry-brown

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
04:47 - Concerns about leadership future raised by Premier's performance
08:23 - China's passive stance in world affairs
11:20 - Impact of changes in US leadership on China's strategy
15:22 - Reshuffling of China's internal priorities during the Trump presidency
18:26 - Chinese middle class's interest in international relations
21:05 - Summary of Evan Osnos' article on Chinese concerns
25:31 - Intrigue within the party and navigating power dynamics
27:35 - China's core interests defined as stability with internal link
31:51 - China's focus on regional stability and development
36:36 - China's dominance reshaping the world with little commonality
39:45 - Comparison of envy towards South Korean culture and China
43:10 - China's crucial role in the Middle East
45:27 - Taiwan's Unresolved Status: A Ticking Time Bomb
46:21 - Conclusion

Welcome to the China-MENA podcast. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton discusses China's influence on the air domain in the Middle East and North Africa with guests Dr. Assaf Heller and Sarah-Masha Fainberg. They explore potential biases in analyzing China's strategy, its limited security role, concerns about its presence, and its strategic objectives in the region. Gain insights into the implications of China's expanding presence and its effects on military capabilities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on this important topic.

Takeaways

• Presence in the MENA Region
• Implications on the Air Domain and Military Capabilities
• Concerns about Chinese Exports and Technology Transfers
• Chinese Technology Transfers and Impact on the Air Domain
• Understanding China's Presence in the Region

Quotes

"The Chinese influence in the Middle East should not be overlooked. It encompasses both strategic and operational impact, and we must consider it seriously."- Dr. Assaf Heller

"China seeks to restore and preserve its position as a global power through a national rejuvenation journey." - Sarah-Masha Fainberg

Featured in the Episode

Dr. Assaf Heller​​
Colonel Reserves
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-heller-242323137/

Sarah-Masha Fainberg
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-masha-fainberg-phd-2602821a9/

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
03:53 - Sophisticated Weapon Systems: Development and Transfer by China
07:54 - Balancing China's Strategic Objectives: The Key Challenge
13:42 - Shifting Stance: China's Evolving Role in the Middle East
17:03 - Arab and Jewish Political Influence: Examining China's Perspective
20:59 - Seeking an Unbiased Operational Perspective: Hope of Analysts
22:34 - Potential Confrontation and Implications: Israel-China Dynamics
28:08 - Military-Civil Fusion Concerns: Exploring the Chinese MCF Concept
31:42 - Technology and Arms Exports: Concerns over China's Influence
35:47 - Beto Satellites and Dual Technology Purpose: China's Approach
36:49 - Cooperation Agreements: Lack of Specific and Quantifiable Details
42:41 - Impact on Regional Security: Discussing China's Technological Influence
44:55 - Forecasting Advanced Technology and Arms Transfers by China
47:23 - Seizing Opportunities: China's Role in the Middle East
52:10 - Conclusion

In this episode of China-Mena titled "Performative or Substantive Engagement? China & Russia in the Middle East," our host Jonathan Fulton and guests Dr. Li-Chen Sim and Mark Katz explore the growing collaboration between China and Russia and its impact on the Middle East. We unravel the complexities of Sino-Russian engagement in the region, discussing Russia's interests, China's role, and the influence of the Ukraine war. Join us as we navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape of this crucial region.

Takeaways

• China-Russia Collaboration in the Middle East
• China's Activities and Interests in the Middle East
• Perceptions of Great Power Competition and Influence in the Middle East

Quotes

"There is room for negotiation and cooperation between the US and China, transcending any cold war-like conflict." - Mark Katz

"Together, as a force multiplier, they amplify their interests and narratives in the Middle East, projecting greater collective power and influence."- Dr. Li-Chen Sim

Featured in the Episode

Dr. Li-Chen Sim​​
Political Scientist At Khalifa University Abu Dhabi United United Arab Emirates
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/li-chen-sim-3098035a/

Mark Katz
Professor of Government and Politics, George Mason University--Schar School of Policy and Government
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-n-katz-0707b213/

Jonathan Fulton
Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi
https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b
https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction
03:13 - Russian Weaponry and Reactor Sales: Driving Middle East Cooperation
10:01 - Amplifying Influence through Media Collaboration: The Force Multiplier
13:42 - Middle East's Perspective: Russia as Muscle, China as Financial Power
16:07 - Russia's Challenges as a Weapon Supplier: The Impact of Ukraine
19:06 - Changing Power Dynamics: China's Role in the Gaza Conflict
23:24 - China's Benefits from Russia's Non-Compliance with OPEC
28:14 - Prospects for Saudi Nuclear Energy Cooperation: A Realistic Outlook
30:08 - Middle Easterners' Support for Russian Influence in 2015
32:32 - US Concerns and Attention-Seeking in Response to Russia's Actions
38:48 - Acting with Diplomatic Considerations: Weighing Repercussions
42:08 - Inevitable Cooperation: China, Russia, and the Middle East
44:26 - Exploring Cooperation: Russia, Ukraine, West, and the Middle East
46:23 - Outro