Mixed signals: China in the Middle East

China's interests in the Middle East continue to grow, and the region has become an integral part of President Xi's New Silk Road. But while China has a keen interest in the region’s energy resources and is willing to expend diplomatic efforts to secure these, it regards the complex Middle East politics with caution. However, China’s position is increasingly under pressure as new dynamics and growing tensions in the Middle East beg not just an economic but also a geopolitical response from Beijing.