Source: Journal of International Relations and Diplomacy, No. 9, Vol. 4, 2016

Abstract: The current Middle East situation is characterized by accelerating multi-polarity, the intertwining sectarian politics and geopolitics, the impending crisis of US alliance system, the escalation of arms race, and the deterioration of terrorism and separatism. Syria, Iran, Yemen and Palestine-Israel peace process will remain the flashpoints. Within such a changed situation, China’s Middle East policy is evolving from passiveness to aggressiveness. First, participation in the Middle East governance and protection of its practical interests are the two major pillars of China’s diplomacy in the Middle East; second, bilateral and multilateral mechanisms are the major platforms; third, partnership instead of alliance is the unique China-styled coalition policy, and finally the “Belt and Road Initiative” is an important tool of Chinese Middle East diplomacy.

Keywords: China and the Middle East; Middle East Diplomacy; Peace Process; Conflict Resolution