Description
This study analyses the mechanisms through which China performs its balanced act when dealing with regional rivalries in the Middle East, especially between Saudi Arabia and Iran. We argue that unlike balancing or balance of power practices in the Western context, China’s understanding of balance can be better described with the Chinese phrase “Ping-Heng” (平衡). The latter refers to holding a balanced position among states in rivalry and keeping good relations with all of them. China performs its balancing act mainly through three mechanisms. Diplomatically, it establishes same-level partnerships with both by paying identical state visits, and by promptly soothing one’s dissatisfaction with diplomatic interactions with the other. Institutionally, China seeks to absorb Saudi Arabia and Iran into multi-lateral organizations, such as SCO and BRICS, by providing platforms for them to promote mutual communication and cooperation. Militarily, China keeps abundant arms sales to Saudi while holding more drills with Iran to alleviate security concerns of the each side. Under China’s balanced act, Saudi Arabia and Iran understand China as a reliable broker and capable of influencing the other side’s behaviour.
