Over 100 representatives from China, 19 Arab countries, and the Arab League gathered in Shanghai for the 5th China-Arab States Reform and Development Forum. The forum focused on strengthening cooperation under the Global Development Initiative (GDI), emphasizing innovation-driven industrial development and multilateralism.
Zhai Jun, the Chinese government’s special envoy on Middle East affairs, highlighted the importance of collaboration. “China will continue working with Arab countries to advance innovation-led development and deepen openness and win-win cooperation,” he said.
Deepening Partnerships
China and Arab countries have forged a comprehensive partnership, with bilateral trade reaching approximately $400 billion in recent years, making China the largest trading partner of Arab countries. Cooperation under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) has expanded, bringing tangible benefits to both regions.
In Egypt, the China-Egypt TEDA Suez Economic and Trade Cooperation Zone has created nearly 9,000 direct jobs and more than 80,000 indirect job opportunities, boosting local economies. In Algeria, the construction of the eastern section of the East-West Highway with China’s participation has become a vital economic artery.
In the United Arab Emirates, a joint venture between China’s Harbin Electric International Engineering and Saudi Arabia’s ACWA Power is building the Hassyan clean coal project in Dubai—the first of its kind in the Middle East. This project exemplifies the commitment to sustainable energy development.
Driving Global Development
Under the BRI, China and Arab countries have initiated over 200 major projects in infrastructure and energy, benefiting nearly 2 billion people. These efforts showcase the shared goal of enhancing connectivity and fostering economic growth.
In Fujian Province, the Fujian Gulei Phase II Integrated Refining and Petrochemical Project symbolizes Chinese-Arab energy cooperation. With a total investment of 71.1 billion yuan (about $9.7 billion), the project is expected to reach full capacity by 2030, supplying 5 million tonnes of raw materials annually and promoting smart and green development.
Khaled Mahdi, former secretary-general of the Supreme Council for Planning and Development in Kuwait, emphasized the significance of the GDI. “The GDI is not just a theoretical framework, but a real opportunity to reshape the landscape of global cooperation,” he noted. He stressed the importance of localizing the GDI in various countries and increasing financing for long-term development.
A Shared Future
The forum underscored the mutual commitment of China and Arab states to pursue high-quality growth and innovation. By strengthening ties and promoting collaborative projects, both regions aim to contribute significantly to global reform and development.
