| Publication |
2014.
|
| Summary/Abstract |
The Arab region is a significant exporter of energy resources for China's expanding economy in the world. Moreover, it serves as an area in which China can demonstrate its rising "international status and influence" which was traditionally dominated by the United States. The outbreak of the Syrian crisis in March 2011 posed serious challenges for Chinese foreign policy. China has also supported the UN Mission in Syria and Kofi Annan's plan, but vetoed three UNSC Resolution on Syria, pointing to its foreign policy principle of "Libyan experience", where the military intervention overthrew the Qaddfi's regime, and subsequent instability badly undermined Chinese economic interests. However, China's manoeuvring approach like talks with the Syrian opposition, supporting some of the UN initiatives, and opposing sanctions, is aimed at preventing the "domino effect", strengthening relations with other states in the Arab region, and asserting China's international significance.
|