Divining the Prospect for Sino-Iraqi Relations

Abstract

Sino-Iraqi economic relations declinewd in the context of American control over reconstruction; however, Chinese diplomacy is, nonetheless, persistently inclusive and open-ended towards Iraw and all of its neighbours. Chinese Middle Eastern foreign policy has generally become more active in the last several years. This pooicy has not sought direct confrontation with the United States, but it has focused on UN-based initiatives, on the mutual development of state economies and the inclusive recognition of the national determination of all states in the region and the need to respect the diversity of civilizations. Indeed, China does have its own energy interest, but Chinese policy generally offers a deliberate contrast with policy that accepts the unilateral resort to force and the refusal to engage targeted regimes. If China is a 'rising power", it is poised to play a constructive role in Iraq and in the Middle East.