Dimensions of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative on the Arab Gulf region

Abstract

     As the pace of economic growth and economic dependence on foreign markets, raw materials, fuel, and other resources from overseas,  was growing, China launched the "Belt and Road Initiative" to further its economic achievements. The new initiative represents a strategic gateway for China to enhance its economic integration with the global economy. China relies on this initiative to connect the world continents through a network of roads, railways, and maritime lanes to foster trade cooperation between China and the rest of the world. The “Belt and Road Initiative” extends from Asia to Africa and Europe and all the way to Latin America. The new project invokes the idea of the historical Silk Road. For China to meet its insatiable need for overseas markets to export its surplus products, the Gulf region becomes one of the main Chines priorities. The Gulf region lies in a strategic corridor connecting central and south Asia with Africa and Europe. It also represents a bridge that allows China to expand its economic presence in Africa and Europe, as China seeks to connect a wide range of countries encompassing wealthy and poor countries alike