FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCES AND HUMANITIES, UNIVERSITY

MALAYSIA SARAWAK

UW631-3001 INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

SEMESTER 2-2022/2023
SSA3054-NEGOTIATION AND CONFLICT RESOLUTION

COURSE COORDINATOR: DR LUCY SEBLI SEIDELSON

FINAL ASSESMENT: GROUP ASSIGNMENT
DATE OF SUBMISSION: 30 JUNE 2023

TITLE : WHAT FACTORS CONTRIBUTED TO CHINA’S SELECTION AS AN

INTERNATIONAL MEDIATOR IN THE SAUDI-IRAN RECONCILATION PROCESS,
AND HOW HAS THIS CHOICE BEEN PERCEIVED AS A POSITIVE
DEVELOPMENT FOR THE MIDDLE EAST REGION AS WELL AS A SIGNIFICANT
DIPLOMATIC AND POLITICAL ACHIEVEMENT FOR CHINA

WORDS COUNT: 6177 (INCLUDING REFERENCES)

GROUP MEMBERS:
I. 74833
II. 75200
 TITLE : WHAT FACTORS CONTRIBUTED TO CHINA’S
SELECTION AS AN INTERNATIONAL MEDIATOR IN THE
SAUDI-IRAN RECONCILATION PROCESS, AND HOW HAS
THIS CHOICE BEEN PERCEIVED AS A POSITIVE
DEVELOPMENT FOR THE MIDDLE EAST REGION AS WELL
AS A SIGNIFICANT DIPLOMATIC AND POLITICAL
ACHIEVEMENT FOR CHINA
74833*1,& 75200*2
1&2
Faculty of Social Sciences and Humanities, Universiti Malaysia Sarawak, 94300 Kota Samarahan,
Sarawak, Malaysia
*Corresponding authors : 74833@siswa.unimas.my; 75200@siswa.unimas.my

ABSTRACT
This paper investigates the factors that contributed to China's selection as an
international mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation process and examines the
positive developments this choice has brought to the Middle East region. The study
sheds light on several key factors that played a significant role in China's appointment,
including its historical non-alignment stance, economic leverage as a major importer of
oil from both Saudi Arabia and Iran, and its rising international stature.
China's historical non-alignment stance has been crucial in its selection as a
mediator. By maintaining a neutral position in regional conflicts, China has gained trust
and recognition as an impartial actor capable of fostering dialogue and negotiation
between conflicting parties. This impartiality has positioned China as a reliable and
unbiased mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation process.
Additionally, China's substantial economic ties with both Saudi Arabia and Iran
have further strengthened its role as a mediator. As a major importer of oil from these
two countries, China possesses significant economic leverage and has the ability to
engage in constructive diplomacy by leveraging its economic interests. This economic
influence has allowed China to engage with both parties and encourage them to seek
peaceful resolutions to their disputes.
Furthermore, China's rising international stature has contributed to its selection
as a mediator in the Middle East. China's active engagement in global affairs and its
growing influence on the world stage have garnered attention and recognition from
regional actors. As a result, China's involvement in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation
process has been seen as a positive development for the Middle East region.
China's role as a mediator has been perceived positively in the Middle East, as
it offers an impartial and neutral platform for dialogue. By providing a diplomatic space
for conflicting parties to engage in constructive conversations, China has played a
significant role in fostering understanding, reducing tensions, and facilitating peaceful
negotiations.
Overall, China's appointment as an international mediator in the Saudi-Iran
reconciliation process signifies a remarkable diplomatic and political achievement. It
demonstrates China's ability to navigate complex regional dynamics while contributing
to Middle East stability and peace.

Keywords: Mediator, Middle East, regional stability, diplomatic, reconciliation

1
INTRODUCTION
The selection of China as an international mediator in the Saudi-Iran

reconciliation process has been influenced by several factors. This paper aims to

explore these factors and examine how this choice has been perceived as a positive

development for the Middle East region, as well as a significant diplomatic and political

achievement for China.

China's emergence as a mediator in the Saudi-Iran conflict can be attributed to

its historical non-interference policy and neutral stance in regional conflicts. As noted

by Pan and Yang (2020), China has long adhered to a principle of non-alignment and

non-interference in the internal affairs of other countries. This has positioned China as

an impartial mediator, capable of fostering dialogue and reconciliation between

conflicting parties.

Furthermore, China's economic influence in the Middle East has played a

crucial role in its selection as a mediator. As a major importer of oil from both Saudi

Arabia and Iran, China holds significant economic leverage over the two nations. This

economic interdependence provides China with the ability to engage with the

conflicting parties and offer incentives for peaceful resolution.

Moreover, China's growing international stature and its ambitious Belt and

Road Initiative (BRI) have bolstered its diplomatic credentials. The BRI, aimed at

enhancing connectivity and promoting economic cooperation, has garnered global

attention and participation (Mackinder, 2021). China's involvement in resolving the

Saudi-Iran conflict reflects its increasing global influence and signals its commitment

to playing a constructive role in international affairs.

2
 The choice of China as a mediator has been perceived as a positive development

for the Middle East region. The involvement of an external power with no historical

baggage or vested interests brings a fresh perspective to the reconciliation process. This,

in turn, helps reduce tensions and fosters a more stable environment in the Middle East.

Next, China's selection as a mediator signifies a significant diplomatic and

political achievement for the country. It showcases China's ability to shape and

influence regional affairs beyond its immediate sphere of influence, solidifying its

reputation as a responsible and influential global player.

In conclusion, the selection of China as an international mediator in the Saudi-

Iran reconciliation process can be attributed to its historical non-interference policy,

economic influence, and growing global stature. This choice has been perceived as a

positive development for the Middle East region, offering an impartial platform for

dialogue and contributing to stability. Moreover, it represents a significant diplomatic

and political achievement for China, highlighting its ability to shape the geopolitical

landscape and solidify its role as a major player in international politics.

3
LITERATURE REVIEW

China's Role as a Mediator in Middle East Conflicts

China's increasing involvement as a mediator in Middle East conflicts has

gained attention in recent years. Scholars have examined China's role and its impact on

regional dynamics, shedding light on its motivations, strategies, and the outcomes of its

mediation efforts.

Pan and Yang (2020) discuss China's role as a mediator in Middle East conflicts,

highlighting its historical non-interference policy and neutral stance as key factors in

its selection as a mediator. They argue that China's impartiality and willingness to

engage with conflicting parties have contributed to its effectiveness in fostering

dialogue and reconciliation.

Zhang (2020) explores China's mediation efforts in the Israeli-Palestinian

conflict. The author analyses China's diplomatic initiatives, including the hosting of

peace talks and its emphasis on a two-state solution. Zhang suggests that China's

involvement has the potential to enhance the peace process and contribute to stability

in the region.

In a study by Li (2019), the author examines China's mediation role in the Syrian

conflict. Li argues that China's primary objective is to protect its national interests,

including stability in the region and the promotion of its Belt and Road Initiative. The

study highlights China's use of economic incentives and diplomatic initiatives to

encourage dialogue and de-escalation among the conflicting parties.

Furthermore, Kim and Moon (2021) investigate China's mediation role in the

Yemeni conflict. The authors analyse China's engagement through diplomatic channels

4
and its provision of humanitarian aid to alleviate the crisis. They suggest that China's

involvement reflects its growing influence in the region and its desire to contribute to

peace and stability.

Concept of Mediator
Mediator is a neutral third party who helps the people in disagreement talk to

each other and find a solution. The mediator does not make choices for the parties but

helps them look at their options and find areas of agreement. In the story of one of the

main people at the 1978 Camp David Summit, the way President Carter handled the

relationship between Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian President

Anwar Sadat shows well what a mediator does. According to the article, the writer

mentioned to get people to trust each other and get over their fears, Carter acted as a

"psychotherapist" and a "messenger," passing back and forth views and impressions.

On other times, he was more of a referee, trying to get people to agree on things he

thought were fair. In the end, Carter tried to get Sadat and Begin, and through them,

their separate government systems, to agree to a peace deal. (Quandt, 1986, p. 5).

In this book written by Ho Won Jeong tittled Conflict Management and

Resolution, he stated that the most important thing a mediator does is create an

environment that is good for negotiating by making it easier for people to talk to each

other, which helps to ease emotions. A neutral third party's role in a discussion is to

help people talk to each other when a disagreement gets in the way. By helping them

talk to each other, the third party would show good faith and trust in their ability to find

acceptable solutions. At meetings set up by counsellors, parties can talk about their

worries and feelings directly or informally. Mediators should pay attention to both

secret and obvious problems and be aware of how power and ideals affect the

negotiation process. As a mediators, communications skills and motivation is very

5
important. As a mediator, the most important job is to make touch, pass on information,

and make sure everyone understands. Other than that, a mediator's job is to find out

what each side is worried about but does not want to say out loud. Communication tasks

can be helped by giving missing information and getting to know each other. During a

planning process, people can talk openly and honestly to find out where they agree and

disagree. Emotions can be controlled or managed by having separate meeting talks with

each person in a dispute. Better understanding of each other's views makes it easier to

find a middle ground. A trusted third party sets up an informal way for the two sides to

talk to each other. This helps figure out what the main problems are. Since mediation

is a long-term negotiation method, a mediator should be able to communicate to both

parties and manage dispute to reach an agreement.

A mediator helps both parties express concerns and identify needs by

exchanging information about probable needs and interests. An excellent referee is

trustworthy and empathetic. Agenda changes by a mediator may alter a debate. Agendas

should not be dishonest or unfair. A referee creates trust by debating each side

individually. Mediation can provide a soft landing for talks and keep them going.

Intermediaries can ease conflicts. When just talking to an opponent makes people angry

and talks require making concessions, parties try to limit their political risks. Critics at

home are quieted by talks between two parties. Intermediaries could be to blame when

mediation does not work. Communication helps opponents avoid embarrassment.

Moves toward peace that a mediator suggests might not be seen as signs of weakness.

When parties cannot agree on a solution, using a third party can protect their

reputations.

According to the book, the roles and tactics of mediators vary a lot, and state

and non-state mediators have different goals, skills, abilities, and power over the parties

6
in a dispute. Individual mediators rely on their ability to talk to people, but states have

the advantage of being able to bring real resources to the table. Different kinds of

counselors have different levels of power, from being able to persuade people to change

their minds to threatening to leave. People can like mediators if they can come up with

solutions that both sides like. Individual states can get involved in battles that hurt their

political interests or help them gain more power or prestige.

International or regional groups like the UN Secretary General's office, the

Organization of American States, the Organization of African Union, and the Economic

Community of West African States (ECOWAS) often require or encourage

compromise. Arab intermediaries, like the Arab League, try to get people to get along

again and keep the Arabs together (Jeong,2010,pp186). Even among state facilitators,

geostrategic forces and small states are not the same. Strong states can use both carrots

and sticks to get compromises, make suggestions, and change the incentives and

payoffs. A power trading model helps keep the international system stable (Kleiboer,

1998) because it uses big countries as middlemen. On the other hand, small and middle-

ranking states use conversation and contact as low-key ways to improve their standing

and reputation.

In conclusion in this literature review, China's rising position as a Middle East

mediator has been criticized by scholars because to its history of inactivity. Fair and

willing to communicate to all sides helps China foster peace and conversation. China's

political actions, such as peace negotiations and promoting a two-state solution, may

aid the peace process and stabilize the region. A mediator helps individuals

communicate and reach consensus.

7
 Mediators help individuals discuss and calm down, creating a suitable climate

for negotiations. They should be trustworthy, kind, and social. They may also assist

individuals speak about their issues and find out what they need by giving information

about potential desires and activities.

Mediators have varied duties and techniques. State and non-state mediators

have differing aims, talents, and influence over the disputants. Individual mediators rely

on their people skills, whereas governments have actual resources. When conversations

fail, mediators may assist both parties avoid embarrassment and safeguard their

identities.

8
FINDING AND DISCUSSION

Findings
1.0 Diplomatic Influence: China's rise as a global power has increased its diplomatic

influence. Its active engagement in international affairs, particularly through initiatives

like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), has enhanced China's standing as a trusted

mediator. China's involvement in mediating the Saudi-Iran conflict demonstrates its

growing role as a responsible global player, capable of resolving complex disputes.

China's rise as a global power has indeed increased its diplomatic influence

(Sutter, 2018). Through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), China has

actively engaged in international affairs, forging economic and diplomatic ties with

countries around the world (Sutter, 2018; Wang, 2019). This active engagement has

contributed to enhancing China's standing as a trusted mediator in regional conflicts.

China's involvement in mediating the Saudi-Iran conflict showcases its growing

role as a responsible global player capable of resolving complex disputes. The BRI,

with its focus on connectivity and economic cooperation, has provided China with a

platform to engage with regional actors and gain their trust (Wang, 2019). This trust is

crucial for China's success as a mediator, as conflicting parties must believe in China's

ability to act impartially and facilitate productive dialogue.

Moreover, China's growing economic influence, particularly as a major

importer of oil from both Saudi Arabia and Iran, has granted it significant leverage and

credibility in the region (Zhang, 2019). This economic interdependence provides China

with incentives and tools to incentivize cooperation and peaceful resolution of conflicts.

China's diplomatic influence is also evident in its ability to shape regional

dynamics beyond its immediate sphere of influence. By actively participating in

9
mediating the Saudi-Iran conflict, China signals its commitment to promoting stability

and peace in the Middle East, thus solidifying its image as a responsible global leader

(Pan & Yang, 2020).

In conclusion, China's rise as a global power and its active engagement in

international affairs, notably through initiatives like the BRI, have enhanced its

diplomatic influence. Its involvement in mediating the Saudi-Iran conflict demonstrates

China's growing role as a responsible global player capable of resolving complex

disputes. China's economic leverage, trust-building efforts, and commitment to regional

stability contribute to its success as a mediator in the Middle East.

2.0 Non-Western Mediator: The choice of China as a mediator also reflects a desire by

the parties involved to seek an alternative to traditional Western mediators. The Middle

East has seen a history of Western interventions and influence, which some regional

actors may perceive as biased or favouring specific interests. China's selection as a

mediator represents a shift towards a more diverse and multipolar approach to conflict

resolution.

The choice of China as a mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation process can

be understood as a desire by the parties involved to seek an alternative to traditional

Western mediators. The Middle East has a long history of Western interventions and

influence, which some regional actors may perceive as biased or favoring specific

interests (Ehteshami & Molavi, 2018). China's selection as a mediator reflects a shift

towards a more diverse and multipolar approach to conflict resolution in the region.

China's non-Western identity and historical policy of non-interference in the

internal affairs of other countries have positioned it as a neutral and impartial mediator

10
(Pan & Yang, 2020). This appeals to regional actors who may be skeptical of Western

powers' involvement due to past experiences. China's involvement brings a fresh

perspective and allows for a more inclusive approach to resolving conflicts in the

Middle East.

Moreover, China's growing global influence and rise as a major global power

contribute to its appeal as a non-Western mediator. Its economic strength and the

success of initiatives like the BRI have garnered attention and recognition from

countries around the world, including in the Middle East (Sutter, 2018; Wang, 2019).

China's selection as a mediator represents a recognition of its ability to offer alternative

perspectives and solutions outside the traditional Western framework.

This choice also reflects the shift towards a more multipolar world order, where

regional actors seek to diversify their diplomatic engagements and leverage the

influence of emerging powers like China (Ehteshami & Molavi, 2018). The

involvement of non-Western mediators provides an opportunity for regional actors to

engage with a broader range of perspectives and potentially achieve more balanced and

inclusive outcomes.

In conclusion, the choice of China as a mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation

process reflects a desire by the parties involved to seek an alternative to traditional

Western mediators. It represents a shift towards a more diverse and multipolar approach

to conflict resolution in the Middle East. China's non-Western identity, impartiality,

and growing global influence contribute to its appeal as a mediator, offering a fresh

perspective and the potential for more inclusive outcomes.

11
3.0 Long-term Stability: The Saudi-Iran rivalry has had a destabilizing impact on the

region, fueling proxy conflicts and exacerbating tensions. China's involvement as a

mediator is seen as an opportunity to address the underlying causes of the rivalry and

promote long-term stability. China's emphasis on dialogue and negotiation aligns with

the aspirations of regional countries for peace and security.

The conflict between two countries, Saudi Arabia, and Iran, has been

exacerbated by a proxy war involving the intervention of foreign powers, which is the

United States and Russia, which aid Saudi Arabia in the provision of weapons because

Saudi Arabia is a supporter of Russia. As previously indicated, Iran provided at least

18 drones to Vladimir Putin's navy following a visit by Russian officers and technicians

to Tehran (Oktav, 2023). This has had an impact on the economies of both nations,

as well as other nations. Saudi Arabia and Iran are two key oil-producing nations.

Therefore, China has seized the opportunity to serve as a mediator for the benefit of the

economy and to increase its influence as a powerful nation. People view China's role as

a negotiator as an opportunity to resolve the underlying causes of the rivalry and work

toward a lasting peace. China's emphasis on dialogue and negotiation aligns with the

requirements of other nations in the region, namely peace and stability.

12
 Figure 1: A map showing China’s is a top trading partner with most Middle Eastern
countries.
Source: Carnegie Endowment for International Peace website 2023

Figure 1 above shown a map displayed China’s is a top trading partner with

most Middle Eastern countries. China was one of the biggest well-known country that

has spent a very long time doing trade with Middle Eastern countries, it is in a position

for China to act as a reliable and trusted broker. In the 1990s, when Beijing began to

shift its strategy emphasis from spreading revolution around the globe to making the

economy more contemporary, in that time, China started to cooperate more closely with

Saudi Arabia and Iran.

The focus of Beijing's strategy had shifted from spreading revolution around the

world to making the economy more modern. The availability of energy sources from

the Middle East has allowed for the economic miracle that is China. Most China's crude

oil imports come from the Middle Eastern countries of Saudi Arabia and Iran.

13
Additionally, Saudi Arabia and Iran also count China as their most important trading

partner. The emphasis placed on the economy provides China with both the access and

the confidence it needs in order to function as a reliable broker. The first is that everyone

in the region is in agreement that China is a significant foreign force in the region since

it has so many corporate interests and influence in the area. This is the case for two

reasons. Additionally, China's enormous economic interests in the region might be

considered as a form of "deposit" for the country's long-term commitment to peace

efforts in the region (Hamzawy, 2023).

There are just a few reasons why the deal to reestablish diplomatic ties between

Saudi Arabia and Iran was successfully signed on March 10, 2023, on a Friday in

Beijing. The China-Gulf Cooperation Council had its inaugural meeting in the Saudi

capital of Riyadh in the month of December 2022. In a manner parallel to this, Iran has

reconciled its official ties with Saudi Arabia and made the decision to cease supplying

the Houthis with weapons. Additionally, it has provided Russia with new types of very

effective and long-range armed drones that it may employ in its battle against Ukraine.

In spite of this, Riyadh has not totally severed relations with the United States, in

contrast to Tehran's actions.

The desire of Iran and Saudi Arabia to bring Washington to its knees is the only

thing that is keeping these two countries together. This is because, when Joe Biden was

president, the US had policies that were bad for both Iran and Saudi Arabia. Iran and

Saudi Arabia looked like they were giving Russia a lot of help, which was another thing

that made Washington sound the alarm. Washington thought that Saudi Arabia's failure

to cut oil production was a sign that it was working with Russia because Riyadh did not

give in. Amid deep anger over this decision by Saudi-led OPEC+ (Organization of the

Petroleum Exporting Countries), the United State officials declared that Biden would

14
re-evaluate the entire relationship with Saudi Arabia (Baker, 2022). Next, this move of

Riyadh was seen by Washington as “undercutting Biden’s efforts to isolate President

Vladimir Putin’s Russia for his invasion of Ukraine, providing considerable relief for

Moscow, which is dependent on oil exports. “Following the conflict that has lasted for

seven years, the Saudi Arabian and Iran has finally come to an agreement on 10 March

2023, which paved the way for the establishment of formal relations between the two

countries. With this agreement, they will find it much simpler to realize their joint

vision for the economic and social advancement of the world in the year 2030. Due to

the fact that the Saudi government is putting billions of dollars into the program's

execution, an increase in tensions with Iran would put those funds in jeopardy,

discourage critical foreign investment, and disrupt the country's ambitions to become a

regional and global centre. As a direct consequence of this, the Saudi capital took an

active interest in working toward mending ties with Tehran.

15
4.0 Enhancing China's Global Reputation: China's successful mediation in the Saudi-

Iran reconciliation process would boost its global reputation as a peacemaker and

problem solver. This achievement would further consolidate China's diplomatic

standing, demonstrating its capacity to contribute positively to international affairs and

play a constructive role in resolving regional conflicts.

China's recent role as a mediator between Saudi Arabia and Iran shows its

growing strategic power and diplomatic skill in world events. The deal between Saudi

Arabia and Iran, which was brokered by China, is just one more sign of the rivalry

between China and the United States. Mediating a deal between Iran and Saudi Arabia

fits with China's larger strategy and goals in the Persian Gulf. Persian Gulf was also

known as Arabian Gulf is a region produces over one-third of the world's oil and

contains more than half of its crude oil resources and natural gas resources. Both Iran

and Saudi Arabia are important partners for Beijing, so helping them reach an

agreement is actually makes sense for China’s own benefits. China's new role as

a peacemaker between Saudi Arabia and Iran is part of a larger shift in Beijing's foreign

policy. China's successful diplomacy puts more pressure than ever on the United States

strategy of building alliances, but it could also be seen as a step in China's efforts to

lower the United States impact on Gulf policies and decisions. China's partnership

diplomacy stands out from traditional ally diplomacy in a big way because of non-

alignment and non-intervention (NANI). This diplomatic approach helps China show

other countries in the area that it is independent and fair, while Washington's alliances

with local players might not convince other countries that it is an honest broker. For

example, when intervening between Israelis and Palestinians, Washington's willingness

to go along with Israel's harsh policy has made the peace process harder, not easier.

16
The NANI approach also helped China build up a lot of soft power which is presenting

a righteous public image so that it can become a peacemaker in the area. While in

another hand, one source of an intermediary's influence and credibility comes from their

hard power, which may take the form of both a network of alliances and a military

force. The United State has the hardest power in the Middle East, but its long

involvement in wars there has given it many problems and even caused terrible horrors

for people who live there. Beijing, on the other hand, has a much better reputation

because it has never been involved in regional wars and has always respected the

authority and independence of regional powers.

17
Discussion

China has shown that a good political relationship can be fixed without using

force or weapons by using mediation. I related this topic to LI 10 which is conflict

resolution. Conflict resolution is the process of handling and ending disputes,

differences, or conflicts between people, groups, or organizations. It means finding

answers to the problems that everyone can agree on and bringing peace, unity, and

balance back to the people concerned. Conflict resolution tries to make disputes less

bad and bring about good things, like better communication, understanding, and

building relationships. One method of conflict resolution is mediator.

In my opinion, as one of the most powerful countries in this year China

has always played a big part in resolving disputes and making international talks easier.

The Chinese government often says that it wants calm answers to problems and will

not meddle in the issues of other countries. China's attempts to bring parties together

can be seen in a number of regional and foreign settings. But it is important to remember

that China's attempts to mediate can have different effects and results based on the

situation and the people involved. In the past, China has been helpful in assisting in the

resolution of contentious issues, including the civil war in Sudan, the nuclear standoff

with North Korea, and the negotiations for a nuclear agreement with Iran. In each of

these disputes, China has taken action, either by resolving the conflicts on its own or

by collaborating with other nations. For instance, China has participated in the Six-

Party Talks, which have been conducted to discuss North Korea's nuclear program

together with the United States of America, South Korea, Japan, and Russia. The

purpose of these talks has been to find a solution to the North Korean nuclear threat.

The Chinese approach to conflict resolution often centers on the principles of non-

interference, mutual respect, and seeking out of solutions that are beneficial to both

18
parties. In most cases, it lends support to political discussions, dialogues, and responses.

In the course of China's efforts to mediate, the country makes frequent references to the

significance of upholding national rights and maintaining territorial integrity. The

increasing global influence and economic might of China have given the country

greater clout in the arena of dispute resolution. It has a significant number of

commercial and economic ties with a wide variety of nations and regions, which

encourages parties to conflicts to communicate to each other and attempt to find

solutions that are beneficial for everyone involved.

However, it is essential to keep in mind that China's efforts to mediate might

also be influenced by the country's own strategic objectives and ambitions related to its

foreign policy. Some people believe that China's involvement in international affairs is

motivated by its ambition to expand its influence and reap the economic rewards of

doing so. Also, China's approach to human rights concerns and its government system

at home in the country may raise doubts about China's commitment to upholding global

ideals and its level of justice in its attempts to resolve the issue.

As a international mediator who has successfully make peace between two big

nations has bring a big attention to the world, China has been criticized for its lack of

freedom of speech, press, gathering, and religion, as well as its record on human rights.

People have said that the Chinese government shuts down criticism, holds political

activists in jail, and limits the rights of ethnic groups like the Uighurs in Xinjiang and

the Tibetans. These acts have made people worry about how well China protects basic

human rights. In the article published on U.S. Department of State’s website, the

Chinese Communist Party in Xinjiang is targeting Uyghur women, men, and children

and other Turkic Muslim ethnic groups. Forced population control, forced labor,

random detention in concentration camps, torture, physical and sexual assault, mass

19
surveillance, splitting families, and restricting individuals from expressing their culture

and religion have been proved human rights violations (U.S. Department of State,

2017).

China is also very famous with forced population control the controversial

"One-Child Policy," that only allow one child in every households. There were a huge

number of reports of abortions and sterilizations cases that were forced, but the

government did not have data or records on how many abortions were forced during

the year. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) limits the freedoms of parents can

choose how many children to have, and family planning units from the regional level

down to the village level make sure that people do not have more than they should (U.S.

Department of State, 2019). Most Chinese people had to follow the "one-child policy"

well into the 21st century, but at the end of 2015, Chinese officials said that the policy

was coming to an end. At the start of 2016, every family would be able to have two

children.

In conclusion, it is important to remember that China's attempts to negotiate

could be affected by its own foreign policy goals and strategic aims. Some people think

that China is involved in foreign issues because it wants to grow its power and get more

money from it. Also, the way China handles human rights issues and how it runs its

government at home may make people question how committed China is to following

global ideas and how fair it is when it tries to solve the problem.

20
CONCLUSION

China's selection as an international mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation

process can be attributed to several key factors. First and foremost, China's historical

policy of non-interference and its neutral stance in regional conflicts have positioned it

as an impartial and trusted mediator. This non-Western identity and its emphasis on

respecting the sovereignty of nations resonate with regional actors who may be

sceptical of Western interventions. Additionally, China's economic influence as a major

importer of oil from both Saudi Arabia and Iran has granted it significant leverage and

credibility in the region.

The choice of China as a mediator has been perceived as a positive development

for the Middle East region. The involvement of a non-Western power offers an

alternative perspective and a more inclusive approach to conflict resolution. China's

selection represents a shift towards a more diverse and multi-polar approach, reducing

the dominance of Western mediators and allowing for a broader range of perspectives

to be considered.

Furthermore, China's involvement is seen as a significant diplomatic and

political achievement. It demonstrates China's growing global influence and its ability

to shape regional affairs beyond its immediate sphere of influence. The selection of

China as a mediator solidifies its reputation as a responsible and constructive player in

21
international politics, showcasing its capacity to navigate complex regional dynamics

and contribute to stability and peace in the Middle East.

China's rise as a global power and its active engagement in international affairs,

particularly through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), have enhanced

its diplomatic influence. The BRI has provided China with a platform to build economic

and diplomatic ties, gain the trust of regional actors, and offer incentives for cooperation

and peaceful resolution. China's involvement as a mediator in the Saudi-Iran

reconciliation process reflects its commitment to promoting stability and peace, not

only in the Middle East but also on the global stage.

However, it is important to note that China's role as a mediator also presents

challenges and raises questions. Some may question China's true motives and whether

its economic interests may influence its neutrality. Additionally, concerns about China's

human rights record and governance practices may impact its perceived credibility as a

mediator. These complexities and potential criticisms should be considered in

evaluating the overall impact of China's role as a mediator in the Saudi-Iran

reconciliation process.

In conclusion, the factors that contributed to China's selection as an international

mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation process include its historical non-interference

policy, neutral stance in regional conflicts, and economic influence. This choice has

been perceived as a positive development for the Middle East region, offering an

alternative and more inclusive approach to conflict resolution. It represents a significant

diplomatic and political achievement for China, highlighting its growing global

influence and ability to shape regional affairs. However, it is essential to critically

examine the challenges and potential criticisms associated with China's role as a

22
mediator in order to fully understand its impact on the region and international

dynamics.

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

We would like to express my sincere appreciation to Dr. Lucy Sebli Seidelson, our

course coordinator, for her guidance, support, and valuable insights throughout the

process of working on this assignment. Her expertise and feedback were instrumental

in shaping the research and analysis.We would also like to extend our gratitude to our

friends for their collaboration, dedication, and contributions to this project. Their input

and discussions greatly enhanced the quality of our work, and we are grateful for their

teamwork.

Furthermore, we would like to thank the Middle East region for embracing

China's role as an international mediator in the Saudi-Iran reconciliation process. The

region's recognition of China's diplomatic and political achievements in this regard

signifies the positive impact and effectiveness of China's involvement in promoting

peace and stability.

Lastly, we would like to express our gratitude to all the individuals and institutions that

provided resources, references, and support during the research process. Their

contributions were invaluable in enriching the content and analysis of this assignment.

24
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