17 APR 2024 · In this episode, China vs the IMEC Corridor in the Middle East, Dr. Jean-Loup Samaan from the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore joins to discuss minilateral initiatives' impacts in the region. Explore the ongoing significance of the International Maritime Exercise (IMEC), Israel's post-Gaza war role, and complexities of regional dynamics. Unpack France's strategic trilateral partnership with the UAE and India to navigate tensions with China. Join us for a deep dive into these shifts, evaluating their implications on alliances and power balance in the Middle East on China-Mena. Takeaways: - International Maritime Exercise Initiative (IMEC) and Geopolitical Context - France's Strategic Involvement in IMEC - Uncertainties Surrounding IMEC Quotes "The benefit of mini laterals is creating new discussion mechanisms among countries, crucial in regions like the Middle East lacking strong security frameworks."-Jean-Loup Samaan “The introduction of new methods brings hope and progress in the absence of a strong security structure.."-Jean-Loup Samaan Featured in the Episode Dr. Jean-Loup Samaan Linkedin: https://sg.linkedin.com/in/jean-loup-samaan-512a782 Website:https://www.soas.ac.uk/about/steve-tsanghttps://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/jean-loup-samaan/ Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 00:23 - Exploring Middle East Mini Laterals 05:41 - Analyzing the US-led I2U2 Initiative 06:58 - Middle Eastern Caution Towards a New Quad 11:28 - Research Challenges in a Changing Middle East 15:04 - Jordan's Vital Role in Regional Stability 18:37 - Unpacking China's Regional Influence 23:35 - Shifting Foreign Policies Amid US-China Competition 26:31 - Innovations in Security via Mini Laterals 30:08 - Insights on Middle Eastern Politics and China's Responses 35:28 - UAE and India: Infrastructural Investments and Rebranding 38:27 - Issues with IMEC Format and Financing Concerns 40:24 - Uncertainties Surrounding Israel's Role 43:12 - Outro

8 APR 2024 · Join us on China-Mena as we delve into Xi Jinping's political philosophy and its effects on the Middle East and North Africa. Discover Xi's global vision, autocratic alliances, and conflicts with leaders like India's Modi. With expert insights from Steve Zhang, we'll unravel Xi Jinping Thought, explore the Belt and Road Initiative, and China's diplomatic strategies. Delve into power dynamics, internal party debates, and Xi Jinping's quest for superpower status, exploring its impact on the MENA region. Takeaways: - Xi Jinping's Vision versus Other Global South Leaders - China's Redefinition of International Order - The Ideology of Xi Jinping Thought - Global Diplomacy and Foreign Policy under Xi Jinping - Belt and Road Initiative and Global South Relations Quotes "Let's aim to radiate beauty, not just for ourselves but for the Global South and the world. - Steve Tsang "Embrace and uphold Xi's leadership and political thought, fostering unity and determination, even in discomfort." - Steve Tsang Featured in the Episode Steve Tsang Director of the SOAS China Institute Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-b-kardon-7ba90416/https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-tsang-3b937012/ Website:https://www.isaacbkardon.com/https://www.soas.ac.uk/about/steve-tsang Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 04:17 - China's political evolution under Mao and beyond. 09:16 - Evolving Chinese economic system: state vs private. 12:19 - Xi Jinping requires widespread support for his ideology. 14:39 - Xi Jinping's vision: unity, control, national rejuvenation. 21:32 - Xi Jinping aims to reshape global power dynamics. 24:07 - China leading democratization of international order, global South. 29:58 - Overview of China's global engagement and state-centric approach. 34:03 - Global South: diverse, India-China tension, leadership struggle. 39:15 - Navigating Soft Power and Wolf Warrior Diplomacy Under Xi Jinping 44:58 - Steering China's Assertive Stance and Western Relations 49:10 - Outro

6 MAR 2024 · Join us as we dive deep into China's maritime dynamics with Isaac B. Kardon, a top expert at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Isaac's expertise in maritime disputes, global port development, and PLA activities sheds light on China's evolving role in shaping international waters.Discover Isaac's groundbreaking book on China's maritime strategies and delve into his research on China's impact beyond its shores. Uncover China's ambitions in global waters, from deep-sea mining to infrastructure development with dual implications. Tune in for an engaging discussion on China's maritime might and its implications for the global order. Takeaways: - China's Maritime Expansion - Global Maritime Strategy - Maritime Capabilities and International Maritime Order - Naval Presence in the Middle East - Commercial Ports and Industrial Parks - Geopolitical Implications Quotes "The power differentials have become significantly important. It has made your ability to resort to international law as a regional actor less effective and more diluted." - Isaac B. Kardon "China is heavily invested in transportation infrastructure due to its economic priorities as the world's largest trading nation."-Isaac B. Kardon Featured in the Episode Isaac B. Kardon Senior Fellow For China Studies At The Carnegie Endowment For International Peace Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-b-kardon-7ba90416/ Website: https://www.isaacbkardon.com/ Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 07:08 - Disrupting Norms: China's Impact on the International Maritime Order 11:17 - Probing Regional Responses to China's 13:26 - Delving into China's Emphasis on Sovereignty Concerns 18:42 - Shifting Tides: Increasing PLA Deployments and Global Dynamics 20:14 - Navigating Challenges: China's Maritime Interests and Complexities 24:58 - The Precarious Balance: China's Posture Changes and Potential Conflicts 28:05 - Strategic Stronghold: Djibouti's Significance in Chinese Diplomacy 30:25 - Bridging the Divide: Chinese Perspectives on Overseas Actions 34:56 - Anticipating Support: Political and Security Pathways for China 39:50 - Economic Priorities: Balancing Development and Security in China 44:05 - Strategic Insights: Evaluating Military Missions and Facilities 45:27 - Tactical Transactions: Chinese Military Utilization of Commercial Spaces 47:49 - Outro

20 FEB 2024 · Welcome back to the China-Mena podcast! In today's episode, titled "Middle East Instability: A Chinese Perspective," our host Jonathan Fulton and guest Chuchu Zhang explore China's evolving role in the region. They discuss recent events, including the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and China's growing presence, and how these shape China's approach to the Middle East. Gain valuable insights into the complex geopolitical landscape and global power dynamics. Get ready for a thought-provoking discussion! Takeaways - Chinese View of Palestinian-Israeli Conflict - Testing US Hegemony in the Middle East - Overlapping Interests with the United States - Middle Eastern Actors' Diversification of Partnerships - Concerns About Regional Stability and Conflict Quotes "The reconciliation between Saudi Arabia and Iran reminds us that sectarian confrontation in the region is not inevitable, transcending the need to highlight China's greatness." - Chuchu Zhang "There are common interests promoting peace, but it's not a comprehensive solution to all problems. Yet, there is another perspective on promoting peace through development." - Chuchu Zhang Featured in the Episode Chuchu Zhang Associate Professor of International Relations in the School of International Relations and Public Affairs at Fudan University Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - Analyzing China's Role in the Middle East - Insights from an Expert 04:28 - China's Collaboration in Belt and Road Development 08:38 - Exploring China's Growing Involvement in Middle Eastern Affairs 12:44 - Spotlight on Current Middle East-China Relations 16:01 - The Rising Importance of the Middle East 18:42 - Examining US-Israel Goals, China's Concerns, and Global Impact 20:46 - Chinese Leaders' Perspectives on a US-Centered Middle East 24:07 - Unpacking China's Presence in the Middle East and Its Implications 27:44 - Proxy Warfare, Non-State Actors, and China's Dilemma Summarized 30:57 - Major Powers' Engagement with Armed Groups 35:26 - China's Preference for Bilateral Relations in the Middle East 39:58 - Debating the Interpretation of China's Regional Cooperation Proposal 41:19 - Seeking Flexibility: China's and Middle East's Mutual Goal 44:25 - Outro

7 FEB 2024 · Welcome to the China-Mena podcast, where we explore China's foreign policy in the Middle East and North Africa. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton and guest Kerry Brown discuss the domestic drivers shaping China's international engagements. They unravel the complexities of China's internal landscape, including the middle class aspirations and the impact of Xi Jinping's leadership. They also analyze China's growing influence in the Middle East, shedding light on its diplomatic decision-making and potential implications for the region. Join us for a thought-provoking exploration of China's foreign policy strategy and domestic underpinnings. Takeaways - China's Domestic Drivers of Foreign Policy in MENA - China's Core Interests and Soft Power Projection in MENA - China's Global Role and Soft Power Challenges - China's Influence in the Middle East and Domestic Influences on Foreign Policy Quotes "It's strange how China tries to change public opinion while facing an image problem. People love their cuisine and kung fu, but the political system makes it challenging for them to win hearts."- Kerry Brown" Understanding China is complex, but it's crucial to find a balanced perspective in Western discourse."- Kerry Brown Featured in the Episode Kerry Brown Professor of Chinese Studies, and Director,Lau China Institute, King's College, London Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-heller-242323137/https://uk.linkedin.com/in/kerrybrown Website: https://www.kcl.ac.uk/people/kerry-brown Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 04:47 - Concerns about leadership future raised by Premier's performance 08:23 - China's passive stance in world affairs 11:20 - Impact of changes in US leadership on China's strategy 15:22 - Reshuffling of China's internal priorities during the Trump presidency 18:26 - Chinese middle class's interest in international relations 21:05 - Summary of Evan Osnos' article on Chinese concerns 25:31 - Intrigue within the party and navigating power dynamics 27:35 - China's core interests defined as stability with internal link 31:51 - China's focus on regional stability and development 36:36 - China's dominance reshaping the world with little commonality 39:45 - Comparison of envy towards South Korean culture and China 43:10 - China's crucial role in the Middle East 45:27 - Taiwan's Unresolved Status: A Ticking Time Bomb 46:21 - Conclusion

10 JAN 2024 · Welcome to the China-MENA podcast. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton discusses China's influence on the air domain in the Middle East and North Africa with guests Dr. Assaf Heller and Sarah-Masha Fainberg. They explore potential biases in analyzing China's strategy, its limited security role, concerns about its presence, and its strategic objectives in the region. Gain insights into the implications of China's expanding presence and its effects on military capabilities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on this important topic. Takeaways - Presence in the MENA Region - Implications on the Air Domain and Military Capabilities - Concerns about Chinese Exports and Technology Transfers - Chinese Technology Transfers and Impact on the Air Domain - Understanding China's Presence in the Region Quotes "The Chinese influence in the Middle East should not be overlooked. It encompasses both strategic and operational impact, and we must consider it seriously."- Dr. Assaf Heller "China seeks to restore and preserve its position as a global power through a national rejuvenation journey." - Sarah-Masha Fainberg Featured in the Episode Dr. Assaf Heller​​ Colonel Reserves Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/li-chen-sim-3098035a/https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-heller-242323137/ Sarah-Masha Fainberg Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-n-katz-0707b213/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-masha-fainberg-phd-2602821a9/ Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 03:53 - Sophisticated Weapon Systems: Development and Transfer by China 07:54 - Balancing China's Strategic Objectives: The Key Challenge 13:42 - Shifting Stance: China's Evolving Role in the Middle East 17:03 - Arab and Jewish Political Influence: Examining China's Perspective 20:59 - Seeking an Unbiased Operational Perspective: Hope of Analysts 22:34 - Potential Confrontation and Implications: Israel-China Dynamics 28:08 - Military-Civil Fusion Concerns: Exploring the Chinese MCF Concept 31:42 - Technology and Arms Exports: Concerns over China's Influence 35:47 - Beto Satellites and Dual Technology Purpose: China's Approach 36:49 - Cooperation Agreements: Lack of Specific and Quantifiable Details 42:41 - Impact on Regional Security: Discussing China's Technological Influence 44:55 - Forecasting Advanced Technology and Arms Transfers by China 47:23 - Seizing Opportunities: China's Role in the Middle East 52:10 - Conclusion

21 DEC 2023 · In this episode of China-Mena titled "Performative or Substantive Engagement? China & Russia in the Middle East," our host Jonathan Fulton and guests Dr. Li-Chen Sim and Mark Katz explore the growing collaboration between China and Russia and its impact on the Middle East. We unravel the complexities of Sino-Russian engagement in the region, discussing Russia's interests, China's role, and the influence of the Ukraine war. Join us as we navigate the evolving geopolitical landscape of this crucial region. Takeaways - China-Russia Collaboration in the Middle East - China's Activities and Interests in the Middle East - Perceptions of Great Power Competition and Influence in the Middle East Quotes "There is room for negotiation and cooperation between the US and China, transcending any cold war-like conflict." - Mark Katz "Together, as a force multiplier, they amplify their interests and narratives in the Middle East, projecting greater collective power and influence."- Dr. Li-Chen Sim Featured in the Episode Dr. Li-Chen Sim​​ Political Scientist At Khalifa University Abu Dhabi United United Arab Emirates Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/li-chen-sim-3098035a/ Mark Katz Professor of Government and Politics, George Mason University--Schar School of Policy and Government Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-n-katz-0707b213/ Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 03:13 - Russian Weaponry and Reactor Sales: Driving Middle East Cooperation 10:01 - Amplifying Influence through Media Collaboration: The Force Multiplier 13:42 - Middle East's Perspective: Russia as Muscle, China as Financial Power 16:07 - Russia's Challenges as a Weapon Supplier: The Impact of Ukraine 19:06 - Changing Power Dynamics: China's Role in the Gaza Conflict 23:24 - China's Benefits from Russia's Non-Compliance with OPEC 28:14 - Prospects for Saudi Nuclear Energy Cooperation: A Realistic Outlook 30:08 - Middle Easterners' Support for Russian Influence in 2015 32:32 - US Concerns and Attention-Seeking in Response to Russia's Actions 38:48 - Acting with Diplomatic Considerations: Weighing Repercussions 42:08 - Inevitable Cooperation: China, Russia, and the Middle East 44:26 - Exploring Cooperation: Russia, Ukraine, West, and the Middle East 46:23 - Outro

22 NOV 2023 · In this episode of China-Mena titled "China and the Israel-Hamas War: A View from Tel Aviv," host Jonathan Fulton and guest Gedaliah Afterman engage in a compelling discussion on the intricate dynamics between China, Israel, and the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The conversation delves into China's evolving stance, economic interests, potential for mediation, and the consequential effects on China's emerging role in the Middle East. Join us as we unravel the complexities of this relationship and analyze its impact on regional dynamics. Takeaways - China's Relationship with Israel-Palestine - Israel-China Technological Relationship - China's Response to Israel-Hamas War - Unlikelihood of Israel-China Political Partnership - China's Economic Interests in the Middle East - China's Roles in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict - Limited China's Role in the Conflict Quotes "Trade between Israel and China is expected to continue, but the prospects of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) may be jeopardized by trust issues and concerns about doing business in Europe and the US." - Gedaliah Afterman "China's participation in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be contingent upon its alignment with regional interests and its relationship with the United States."- Gedaliah Afterman Featured in the Episode Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Gedaliah Afterman Head, Asia Policy Program at Abba Eban Institute of International Diplomacy, Reichman University (IDC Herzliya) Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gedaliah-afterman/ Guest Website: https://www.abbaeban.runi.ac.il/asia-policy-program Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 00:09 - Understanding the China-Israel Relationship 03:42 - China's Ambitions for Mediation 07:14 - Exploring the Israel-China Tech Connection 06:37 - Analyzing Superpower Competition in the Israel-China Relationship 13:06 - Assessing China's Response to the Conflict 14:04 - Unveiling China's Stance: Anti-Israel Sentiment 17:44 - Examining the Impact on China-Israel Relationship 21:04 - Skepticism and Rhetoric Surrounding Israel-Palestine 25:40 - China's Role in Gaza Assistance 28:30 - China's Growing Influence in the Middle East 29:44 - Deliberating China's Regional Engagement Strategies 31:05 - Outro

2 NOV 2023 · In this episode, titled "10 Years On: China's Belt & Road Initiative and its Future in the Middle East," our host Jonathan Fulton delves into the current state of China's ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its implications for the Middle East. Jonathan will analyze the recently held Belt and Road Forum, the involvement of various countries in the initiative, and the challenges and opportunities it presents. Get ready to explore the complexities of China's global infrastructure plan and its impact on the Middle East, as we discuss the geopolitical dynamics, competing interests, and potential alternatives to the BRI. Takeaways - Impact of the Belt & Road Initiative - China's Strategic Goals and Future Plans - Competition for Leadership in the Global South - Alternatives and Response to the BRI - The EU's Global Gateway Initiative - China's Renewed Commitment to the BRI - Broader Foreign Policy Strategy of China - China's Economic Relationship with the Middle East Quotes "The Belt and Road Initiative exemplifies China's ambition to reshape global dynamics, providing growth alternatives to emerging nations against the prevailing US-led order." - Yun Sun "Developing countries will continue to engage with China, but they need to negotiate for better terms and develop resilience against negative effects." - David O. Shullman Featured in the Episode Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414b https://twitter.com/jonathandfulton David O. Shullman Senior Director of the Global China Hub at the Atlantic Council https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-0-shullman-56a85a24/ Yun Sun Senior Fellow and Co-Director, East Asia Program, Director of the China Program, Stimson Cente rhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/yun-sun-62871729/ Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 02:29 Shaping Foreign Policy: China's BRI and the Global Order 07:04 Reviving Commitments: China's Renewed Focus on the BRI 11:07 Summit Dynamics: Sparse Western Presence at the Belton Road Summit 12:37 Emerging Axis: China's Intensified Focus on the Developing World 15:48 Geopolitical Chess: China's Quest for Influence in the Global South 19:06 Global Rivalry: China's Strategy for Garnering Developing World Support 24:40 Power Balance: India's Role in the Global Competition 26:08 Mission Engagement: Challenging China's Diplomacy in Africa, Latin America, and Asia 29:56 Resilience and Revolution: Offering Digital Alternatives to the BRI 34:19 Economic Endurance: BRI's Stability Amid China's Economic Slowdown 36:57 Strategic Partnerships: Gulf Countries' Economic Diversification with China 39:56 Outro

11 OCT 2023 · In this episode titled "The Gulf’s New De-Escalation Foreign Policy Among World Powers," our host Jonathan Fulton is joined by esteemed guest Mohammed Baharoon to discuss the shifting dynamics of Gulf countries and their foreign policies. From the focus on developmental issues and sustainable economies to the changing perspectives on security and power, our experts explore the implications and potential solutions to foster stability in the region. Join us as we tackle crucial topics such as the impact of China's presence in Africa, the concept of de-escalation as a security strategy, and the evolving landscape of international relations. Takeaways - The Gulf's Shift Towards De-Escalation and Development in Foreign Policy - African Nations: Resources, Youth, and the Impact of Foreign Influence - Evolving Notions of Security and Power: A Changing Perspective - The Changing Geopolitical Landscape of Asia - Gulf Nations' Complex Ties with Global Powers - Pursuing Rapprochement and De-Escalation in International Relations - The UAE's Focus on Development and Collaborative Initiatives - The Growing African Community in the Emirates - Geopolitical Considerations and Africa's Emerging Opportunities Quotes "There is no one-size-fits-all solution to resolving conflicts. Each situation requires a nuanced understanding and a tailored approach." - Mohammed Baharoon "Fostering access, connectivity, and de-escalation is the new approach to address security concerns, shifting away from military solutions" – Mohammed Baharoon Featured in the Episode Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Mohammed Baharoon https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-baharoon-a870b424/ Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 02:02 - Shifting from Security to De-Escalation Strategy 05:28 - Abrahamic Accords: A Shift into Identity Conflict 07:59 - Cooperation for Addressing Cosmic Challenges1 1:58 - Asia's Expanding Concept: India and China Included 14:56 - Gulf Countries Facing Tough Choices in Geopolitics 18:31 - Trump's Masterful Attempt to De-Escalate Korea 20:11 - Prioritizing Local Development over Power Competition 24:33 - Japan's Tech Support for Gulf's Energy Transition 28:56 - Investing in Diversification for Energy Security 30:18 - Emirates' Growing Interest in Africa's Development 35:27 - Questioning the Necessity of African Economic Development 36:45 - Seizing the Early Opportunity in West Africa's Urbanization 40:15 - Creating Safe Spaces for Interaction and Conflict Avoidance 45:56 - Outro Produced by Heartcast Media http://www.heartcastmedia.com/