ABSTRACT
This chapter explores Sino-Middle Eastern relations in terms of energy, trade and arms sales. It also examines the political economy of China’s active engagement in the Middle East. It argues that China’s primary objective in the region is energy security, rather than undermining the USA in the region. Contrary to the realist assumption, China is utilizing the existing Western institutions to achieve its goals in the region, a step highly welcomed and encouraged by Middle Eastern states. The chapter also attempts to develop a tridimensional and a triangular approach to the political economy of the region in relation to the rapid pace of China’s involvement in the Middle East.
