Abstract:
China and Iraq have developed a significant friendship over the past decades. Their relations developed
after establishing diplomatic ties after the 1958 revolution in Iraq and intensified especially in the post 2003 period. China became one of the leading players in the Iraqi market due to its need of oil and
Iraqi need of China’s affordable inexpensive goods. This economic alliance has shifted from Western
imports to Chinese products, reflecting their cost effectiveness. The dynamic Sino-Arab relations,
particularly with Iraq, reveal China's abstention from the 1990 Security Council vote on Iraq and its
opposition to the 2003 American invasion. China has provided support to Iraq, including a $25 million
pledge for reconstruction and writing off Iraq’s debt in 2010. The two countries signed agreements
that saw Chinese companies undertake major infrastructure projects in Iraq, enhancing sectors like oil,
electricity, constructions, and education. China's aid, provided without political conditions, has
facilitated numerous bilateral agreements and investments. Within the complex framework of global
politics, the relationship between China and Iraq has changed dramatically, moving from diplomatic
relations to a deep economic alliance. By examining the Sino-Iraq relationship, this paper takes into
account some of the key historical events and looks at some examples of how China is economically
engaging Iraq today showing their evolving ties. Overall, the deepening friendship between China and
Iraq reflects their shared interests, mutual benefits, and China's growing influence in the region. |
