China’s economic engagement in the Middle East and North Africa

Over the past decade, China has been increasing its economic involvement in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), evolving from its dependence on the energy trade to much broader commercial engagement.

With its 'going global' strategy as a recipe for growth, Beijing became more active diplomatically in order to advance its interests in the region. In turn, with China's stature growing, some MENA countries progressively see Beijing as an additional partner to the region's traditional ties with the U.S. and Europe.