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China Unscripted
#223 China’s Big Mistake in the Middle East | Jonathan Cristol
Oct 9, 2023
Jonathan Cristol, an expert on China's strategy in the Middle East, discusses China's alliance with Iran, the barter system between the two countries, China's impact on Iranian politics, China's growing role in the Middle East, tensions in the Iran-China relationship, investments in alternative energy in the Gulf region, and potential consequences of China withdrawing from the Middle East.
01:13:47
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Quick takeaways
- China's trade arrangement with Iran, trading cheap manufacturing goods for Iranian oil, has led to economic unrest in Iran and raised concerns about surveillance technology being used to oppress protesters.
- China's expanding presence in the Middle East poses challenges for US interests in the region, as it may become a dominant player and potentially jeopardize US efforts to counter Chinese aggression and protect its allies.
Deep dives
China's Economic Interests in the Middle East
China continues to do business with Iran, despite US sanctions, due to its heavy reliance on oil imports. China has entered into an arrangement with Iran, trading cheap manufacturing goods for Iranian oil at below-market prices. This helps China secure a significant amount of oil without triggering US sanctions. However, this trade arrangement has led to domestic economic unrest in Iran, as the influx of Chinese goods has driven down local manufacturing and caused job losses. It has also raised concerns about China's surveillance technology being used to oppress and identify protesters in Iran.
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