|
Trending Topics
|
Source: http://jcpa.org/article/the-future-of-sino-israeli-relations-optimism-or-caution/
The Future of Sino-Israeli Relations: Optimism or Caution?
(Institute for Contemporary Affairs-Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs) Shaun Ho - As the most senior Chinese official to visit Israel since 2000, Chinese Vice President Wang Qishan's visit on October 22, 2018, to the Jewish state marks an important milestone in Sino-Israeli relations. For the past decade, trade, investment, technological cooperation, tourism, and exchanges between the two countries have all expanded rapidly. In its bid to make its economy more innovative, China increasingly sees Israel as a valuable and strategic partner. By investing in Israeli companies, especially those specializing in agricultural, food, and medical technologies, China will solve many domestic problems relating to drought, lack of arable land, food security, and an aging population. Moreover, as part of the Maritime Silk Road in China's "Belt and Road" Initiative (BRI), Israel will play an important role in connecting China with the Mediterranean. Yet Israel must also be cautious of Beijing's close relationships with Tehran and Damascus and ensure that the Sino-Israeli relationship does not jeopardize Israel's national security.Since Iran and the Arab states are of greater strategic importance for Beijing, it will likely be cautious in its developing relationship with the Jewish state so as not to offend its closest allies in the region. The writer is a student at the Georgetown University School of Foreign Service and an intern at the Jerusalem Center.