Azerbaijani Diplomat Delivers Letter to Taliban for Embassy in Kabul
China’s Ambitions in the Middle East: Can Beijing Help Control the Huthi Rebels?
The Huthi rebels’ continued assault on commercial shipping in the Red Sea is posing a fresh challenge for China’s aspirations of becoming a power broker in the Middle East. The crisis is raising questions about whether Beijing can help bring the group to bay.
U.S. officials have been urging China to use its substantial leverage with Iran to play a constructive role in stopping the attacks carried out by the Iran-backed Huthis. However, there have been reports that American officials have seen no signs of help from China. Furthermore, recent meetings between Beijing and Tehran have resulted in Beijing urging Iran to pressure the Huthis or risk jeopardizing future business cooperation with China.
There are multiple reasons why China might want to put an end to the attacks. The disruptions in global shipping caused by the Huthis are stoking fears of global inflation and instability in the Middle East. Additionally, the attacks are raising transport costs and jeopardizing the tens of billions of dollars that China has invested in nearby Egyptian ports.
The current crisis raises complex questions for China’s ambitions in the Middle East. It’s unknown how much influence Iran actually has over the Huthis and whether China’s pressure on Tehran would yield any significant results. Beijing might be reluctant to get too involved and squander its political capital with Iran, particularly after the Huthis announced that they won’t attack Chinese ships transiting the Red Sea.
China might also be weighing whether it has more to gain by stepping back, especially as the attacks are arguably hurting America’s interests more than its own at present. Despite continued talks between U.S. and Chinese officials about restoring trade in the Red Sea, Beijing may decide that it stands to gain more by maintaining a cautious approach.
In other recent developments in Eurasia, Uzbekistan and China have upgraded their diplomatic ties, with Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoev making a landmark visit to Beijing. Additionally, China has received credentials from the Taliban’s new ambassador in Beijing, signaling a slow but steady movement toward recognizing the Taliban administration in Afghanistan.
China’s influence in the region was also tested during air strikes and diplomatic disputes between Iran and Pakistan. Despite the tense situation, China has shown a willingness to mediate when the opportunity arises, although it has remained cautious to protect its reputation.
On the home front, veteran diplomat Liu Jianchao is appearing as the leading contender to become China’s next foreign minister. As the situation continues to develop, China’s actions in the region and beyond will be closely monitored.
For the latest updates on China’s evolving role in Eurasia, tune in to the Talking China In Eurasia podcast, available on various platforms.
