Diplomacy, With A Change In Terms Of Reference
Context:
The Chinese-brokered agreement between Saudi Arabia and Iran reflects a new sort of regional alignment amidst America’s declining influence.
Points to Ponder:
- The section describes the recent deal made by Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China, which covers the reopening of diplomatic relations between the two countries following years of hostility.
- Mediation played a role in this accord, with quiet efforts to find a meeting point between individuals or organisations with opposing opinions. This is consistent with Article 33 of the United Nations Charter, which mentions mediation as a method of Pacific Dispute Settlement.
- The joint statement issued by Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China emphasizes their respect for state sovereignty, and non-interference in state internal matters, and explored ways to strengthen bilateral relations.
- The agreement was viewed as a significant shift in the Middle East’s strategic situation. It is highlighted that the United States’ influence and credibility in the region have dwindled, and a new type of international regional alignment is taking place, empowering Russia and China.
Background
- Bilateral attempts to defuse tensions: Since early 2016, bilateral efforts have been undertaken to defuse tensions in Yemen and Syria between Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi, as well as within the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
- Initiatives by Kuwait and Oman: The Emir of Kuwait and the Sultan of Oman took initiatives that were met with opposition from Iran. Talks were also held in Baghdad and during Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi’s February visit to China.
- Concerns about the attacks: Everyone was concerned about the attacks on maritime and energy infrastructure in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates, as well as the long-term ramifications of the ongoing regional hostilities.
- Visit by China’s President Xi Jinping: During his official visit to Saudi Arabia in December 2022, China’s President Xi Jinping also attended the first China-Arab States Summit and the China-GCC Summit.
- Xi Jinping delivered the following speech: His speech’s theme was “Building on Past Achievements and Working Together to Create a Brighter Future for China-GCC Relations.” He emphasized that China and the GCC should work together to ensure common security.
- Five areas of priority: Xi Jinping emphasized five main areas of collaboration between China and the GCC: “energy cooperation,” “finance and investment cooperation,” “innovation, science and technology cooperation,” “aerospace cooperation,” and “Chinese language and cultural cooperation.”
- Action Plan and Strategic Partnership Agreement: A 2023-2027 Action Plan was agreed upon. A comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement was also inked, along with specific agreements and memorandums of understanding.
- The necessity of increasing collaborative collaboration was emphasized in the statement, particularly about the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and drawing Chinese expertise in Saudi megaprojects.
- Support for fundamental interests: The Chinese side ‘commended the efforts made’ by the Kingdom to facilitate Chinese Haj and Umrah travelers. The statement emphasized that the two countries support ‘each other’s essential interests.
Iran-Saudi Arabia relationship
- Religious Differences: Iran is largely Shiite Muslim, whereas Saudi Arabia is Sunni Muslim. These two Islamic sects have opposing interpretations of Islam and a long history of warfare.
- Competition for Regional Influence: Iran and Saudi Arabia have been fighting for Middle Eastern regional dominance. They have distinct political systems and philosophies, and they support various regional organizations and proxies.
- Religious Differences: Iran is largely Shiite Muslim, whereas Saudi Arabia is Sunni Muslim. These two Islamic sects have opposing interpretations of Islam and a long history of warfare.
- Competition for Regional Influence: Iran and Saudi Arabia have been fighting for Middle Eastern regional dominance. They have distinct political systems and philosophies, and they support various regional organizations and proxies.
- Diplomatic Tensions: The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia has been characterized by diplomatic tensions and occasional flare-ups, such as the 2016 murder of a prominent Shiite cleric in Saudi Arabia, which resulted in the two nations cutting diplomatic contacts.
- Iran and Saudi Arabia are both major oil producers and members of the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC). They have previously fought for market share, which has resulted in difficulties.
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