The Impact of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor on the Economies of the Arab Countries in the Middle East

Abstract

Over the past two decades, China, characterized by its rapid economic growth, substantial economic scale, and extensive trade, has ascended to the status of an Asian and even global powerhouse. With ambitious regional and global aspirations, China has initiated the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a mega-project aimed at establishing a new order of power relations and international interactions. Central to this initiative is the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). By adopting a geoeconomic strategy focused on connectivity, China seeks to expand its influence into West Asia. To achieve this objective, countries such as Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Oman hold significant importance in the region. This research delves into the economic and commercial collaborations among China, Pakistan, and Arab nations. The Arab countries are also seeking to achieve economic and political benefits in the near future by leveraging this mega-project. Examples of strategic initiatives include Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Qatar's National Vision 2030, and Oman's Vision 2040. These long-term strategies outline the countries' ambitious goals for economic diversification, social development, and international influence. The main research question is: What opportunities has the CPEC created for Saudi Arabia, Qatar, the UAE, and Oman? In discussing the opportunities for developing and deepening relations between these countries and Pakistan-China, the article highlights the capacity-building for regional superiority, simultaneous engagement with the East and West, creation of multi-modal land and sea routes, diversification of energy import sources, and enhancement of energy transfer security for producers and consumers to meet the needs and resources of these countries.

Keywords

• China-Pakistan-Economic-Corridor (CPEC)
• Silk Road
• Middle East
• Trans-regional Trade

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