Arab World and China Cooperation and News.

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[Saif al-Arab]

China, Arab states agree to enhance cooperation under new strategic partnership

Saudi Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir and Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi arrive for a news conference at the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in Beijing on Tuesday. Reuters

ARAB NEWS
July 10, 2018

• The ministerial session reflects the two sides’ keenness to deepen Arab-Chinese ties
• Saudi Arabia has opened a branch of the King Abdul Aziz Public Library in Beijing to encourage exchanges between scholars

JEDDAH: The China-Arab States Cooperation Forum began its eighth ministerial meeting in Beijing on Tuesday to discuss ways to strengthen Arab-Chinese relations.
The Saudi delegation was led by Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir, who is chairman of the current session.
In a speech at the opening ceremony, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced his intention to hold an international conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and expressed his support for the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative.

China and Arab countries have agreed to establish a “future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development,” Xi said.
Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah said: “We believe that boosting mechanisms of cooperation between us will contribute to achieving the supreme interests of our Arab nation and our friends, and to enhancing historical relations between the two sides, which we are keen to develop and promote in all fields.”
Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the ministerial session reflects the two sides’ keenness to deepen Arab-Chinese ties.
He urged China to continue its support for Arab issues, foremost among them the Palestinian cause.
On the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, Al-Jubeir delivered a lecture to the Middle East Studies Association.
He said: “Saudi-Chinese relations have been deepened by both countries’ belief in key principles, notably respecting the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their affairs.”
“Saudi Arabia launched its Vision 2030 reform plan to bolster the economy by reducing dependence on oil, attracting investors, and improving the transparency and performance of government institutions,” he said.
Vision 2030 also aims to create a climate of tolerance and moderation, confront extremism, and enable Saudi women to be partners in moving the Kingdom forward, he added.
Saudi Arabia considers itself an essential partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which will have a great economic and social impact on the world, and will contribute to regional security and stability, Al-Jubeir said.
Riyadh is consulting with Beijing on cooperation regarding the BRI, and on encouraging the Middle East to play a key role in the project, he added.
Al-Jubeir pointed to both sides’ keenness to intensify scientific exchanges, as the Kingdom has sent students to China for education and to become bridges between the two countries.
There are hundreds of Saudi students in Chinese universities, and the Kingdom has opened a branch of the King Abdul Aziz Public Library in Beijing to encourage exchanges between scholars, researchers and students in both countries, he said.

http://www.arabnews.com/node/1336746/saudi-arabia

A nice short overview.

 

[Saif al-Arab]

UAE Air Force Paints the Sky to Welcome Chinese President Xi

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s Motorcade Enters the UAE Presidential Palace With Cavalry Ride

Abu Dhabi's Sky Illuminated with Firework Display to Celebrate Chinese President Xi’s Arrival

Extensive article describing the visit (can't post a post with more than 20 photos and links)

https://www.thenational.ae/uae/gove...ikes-strategic-deals-with-xi-jinping-1.752319

China visit: UAE leadership strikes strategic deals with Xi Jinping
President Xi is bestowed with the Order of Zayed during state visit

John Dennehy
July 20, 2018

Updated: July 20, 2018 06:44 PM


The UAE leadership bestowed the Order of Zayed on China's President Xi Jinping on Friday during high-level meetings at the Presidential Palace in Abu Dhabi at which major strategic partnerships were signed.

Energy and financial deals between the two countries were signed during a day of ceremony, as the strengthening friendship between the UAE and China was celebrated.

The state-owned Abu Dhabi National Oil Company signed a wide-ranging agreement with China National Petroleum Company to explore partnership opportunities in the emirate as Adnoc’s plan to expand its refining and petrochemical operations attracts global investors.

Mr Xi received the UAE's highest civil decoration after being welcomed at the palace by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, at about 11:30am.

The honour, named after the UAE's Founding Father, is rarely bestowed and reserved for the country's most esteemed partners among heads of state around the world. Recipients include Saudi Arabia's King Salman, Britain's Queen Elizabeth II and King Mohammed VI of Morocco.


He was also presented with a prized pureblood Arabian rabdan horse.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed presents an Arabian Rabdan horse as a gift to Xi Jinping during a reception at the Presidential Palace. Crown Prince Court - Abu Dhabi
Earlier, the national anthem of both countries was played and Mr Xi reviewed a Guard of Honour in the presence of Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed. A 21-gun salute was fired in honour of the guest and an air display was performed.

The bilateral meeting lasted about an hour and saw both parties discuss strengthening strategic relations as well as discussing regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Major agreements were made in energy, finance, agriculture and e-commerce. The Wam news agency reported that 13 agreements and memorandums of understanding were signed in the presence of the leaders.

Among these, the Chinese state-owned Industrial Capacity Co-Operation Financial Group will set up in Abu Dhabi's financial hub to offer lending facilities to Chinese companies operating in the emirate's industrial zone.

Wam reported that during the meeting Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said that the talks reflected the emphasis the two countries are placing on developing strategic partnerships. UAE-China ties have a strong foundation to begin a new phase of co-operation across multiple sectors that reflect and support the aspirations of the peoples of the two friendly nations, Sheikh Mohammed added.

UAE-China talks are an important milestone for historical ties that join China and the UAE, which were founded by the late Sheikh Zayed, noting that he accompanied the late ruler on the first state visit to China 28 years ago.

"This visit represented a strong starting point for the great development of ties witnessed by the two countries over the years, reaching the highest level of political and economic co-ordination, co-operation and knowledge exchange," he said.

"President Xi's belief in the effective role of soft power to stimulate positive synergy across various sectors, his valuing innovation as an essential element in development, as well as the vested interest in technology and its impact on shaping the future, are in line with the values that form the basis of the UAE's development plans."

The schedule of the state visit is crammed with political, cultural and trade engagements and it continues until Mr Xi's departure on Saturday.

Mr Xi has been given a state welcome afforded to only the most crucial of allies. He is on his first state visit to the UAE.

Along the main roads of the capital on Friday morning flew UAE and Chinese flag, UAE landmarks have lit up with China’s colours while all week the UAE has been celebrating its partnership with China with a particular focus on culture. UAE-China Week was launched on Tuesday and showcases the culture of both countries.

On Friday, Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak, Mother of the Nation, received Mr Xi's wife Peng Liyuan and hosted a banquet in her honour. Wam reported that Sheikha Fatima said that Sheikh Zayed supported women and was always keen to establish love and communication between people.

Mrs Peng praised the UAE’s efforts to empower women. "Sheikha Fatima is a pioneer of women's empowerment and supports Emirati women to achieve their ambitions," she said.

"She also supports women in many other countries and provides them with humanitarian support, by establishing hospitals and medical clinics that provide free treatment for women and children, who are victims of natural disasters and wars."

Earlier Mrs Peng toured Louvre Abu Dhabi with Noura Al Kaabi, Minister for Culture and Knowledge Development.

A UAE-China Economic Forum takes place on Friday night, while President Xi's wife is due to attend a concert.

Mr Xi touched down in Abu Dhabi on Thursday evening and was received by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed at the Presidential Airport.

Fireworks and visuals beamed from Abu Dhabi's Adnoc Headquarters capped off a rousing welcome for the Chinese delegation.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed said on Thursday that the visit will help usher in a "new phase of co-operation" between the two nations.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid said that there is a "mutual understanding" between the UAE and China on a number of regional and international issues. Earlier Sheikh Mohammed had tweeted in Chinese welcoming the arrival of the president.

Mr Xi said he was "exteremely happy" to visit the UAE and said the country is a role model for development and prosperity in the Arab World.

"The UAE has also been playing a positive role in safeguarding and maintaining peace and stability in the region since we established our diplomatic relations 34 years ago," Mr Xi said.

The Chinese president said UAE-Chinese ties have been witnessing "significant progress".

''China pays special attention to efforts aimed at developing the Emirati-Chinese strategic partnership. China is also keen to work with the UAE to expand and deepen the joint cooperation to serve mutual interests in all walks of life within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative, BRI, so as to elevate bilateral ties," Mr Xi said on Thursday.

"I am looking forward to meeting His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, and other UAE leaders to exchange in-depth views on the best ways to boost bilateral ties.

"I am confident that this visit will achieve resounding success in terms of solidifying people-to-people friendship, driven by joint efforts of Emirati-Chinese leaders."

Formal ties were established between both countries in 1984. This was followed in 1990 with a landmark state visit by Sheikh Zayed, the late President, which opened up a new era of cooperation.

Today, close to 200,000 Chinese expatriates call the UAE home. And Co-operation extends across energy, logistics and finance and now Mr Xi’s “belt and road” initiative, aimed at increasing trade between Eurasian countries.

Tourism is also central. Chinese tourists enjoy visa on arrival and last year about a million visited the country. UAE carriers Etihad and Emirates provide crucial air links between East and West.

Emaar Properties also announced plans during the week to build the Middle East’s biggest "Chinatown" shopping complex in Dubai as well as expand its Address hotel brand across China.

Mr Xi leaves the UAE on Saturday and travels on to Senegal, Rwanda and South Africa, Chinese state media Xinhua reported. Mr Xi is expected to attend a summit with Brazil, Russia and India in Johannesburg from July 25 to 27.

The Presidential Palace that played host to Mr Xi on Friday is one of the most prestigious buildings in the UAE. Located in Ras Al Akhdar close to the Emirates Palace hotel, it houses the administrative offices of the President, Sheikh Khalifa, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed.

 

[Saif al-Arab]

KSA has returned the favor of China which hosted the "Roads of Arabia" exhibition at the National Museum in Beijing.

Terracotta warriors star of ‘Treasures of China’ show in Riyadh

The Saudi national antiquities sector is not new and we are building on what officials and citizens have built before us, said the tourism chief. (SPA)

RASHID HASSAN
September 14, 2018

• A rare display of famous artifacts has opened at the National Museum in Riyadh
• The exhibition include 264 items provided by 13 museums and cultural institutions in China

RIYADH: The “Treasures of China” exhibition, featuring collections of the most famous artifacts in Chinese civilization, including the terracotta warriors, has opened at the National Museum in Riyadh.

The display, from Sept.13 to Nov. 23, is part of a rare and priceless collection of historical Chinese artifacts marking the largest cultural relics exhibition hosted by China in the Kingdom.

It includes 264 items provided by 13 museums and cultural institutions such as the Palace Museum, of which 173 are Chinese cultural relics. They include the terracotta sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, the first emperor of China.

The exhibition is organized under the patronage of Prince Sultan bin Salman, president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage (SCTH), and as part of an agreement signed between the Kingdom, represented by the SCTH, and the People’s Republic of China, represented by the State Administration of the Cultural Heritage (SACH), which includes cooperation in archaeological research, exhibitions and museum activities.

Opening the exhibition on Wednesday night, Prince Sultan said: “The exhibition is an important step in the special relations between the two friendly countries.

“Due to its experience and extended relations with the best international universities and research centers, the Kingdom became one of the leading countries in the fields of archaeological discoveries, scientific research and the development of human resources working in the fields of heritage and archaeology.

“King Salman has supported the archaeology sector ever since its creation. The sector itself was productive and had many scientific, research and museum accomplishments when the authority took over it. The SCTH built on the great achievements and developed them in the fields on archaeological discoveries, and through the efforts to protect and return national antiquities as well as the establishment of a new and sophisticated museums system,” he added.

“The ‘Treasure of China’ exhibition represents the convergence of two great civilizations and economic powers. China is a pivotal country and so is Saudi Arabia, so there are many areas of cooperation in the fields of human and cultural heritage as well as in the tourism sector.”

The opening ceremony was attended by Li Huaxin, the Chinese ambassador in Riyadh, the Saudi ambassador to China, Turki Al-Madhi, and a number of senior officials from both countries.

The exhibition of Chinese cultural relics is a rare opportunity for Riyadh residents and visitors to see a collection of the rarest artifacts that embody the ancient civilizations of China.

Hosted by the SCTH in cooperation with the SACH, the exhibition also displays objects from Chinese-Saudi joint archaeological excavations at the ruins of Al-Sereen site.

The joint work has provided valuable resources for the archaeological research involved with the Maritime Silk Road and revealed close connections between China and the Red Sea area in ancient times.

The exhibits showcasing objects from joint Chinese-Saudi archaeological excavations include a large number of items on display overseas for the first time, the Chinese envoy said.

The exhibition has selected the collection of relics from archaeological excavations and historical monuments collected from Chinese museums. It consists of five sections in chronological order: “The Beginning of Civilization, Establishments of Etiquette,” “Unification, Consolidation and Development,” “Prosperity and Diversified Communication,” “Start-up of Business and Marine Trade,” and “Palace and Royal Art.”

The exhibits vary from pottery, bronze, jade, porcelain, gold, silver, enamel and other Chinese cultural treasures. The exhibition aims to introduce the growth of Chinese civilization and show the social life, culture and arts of Chinese civilizations over thousands of years.

On the sideline of the exhibition, the National Museum is displaying archetypes of the Chinese archaeological artifacts recovered during the excavations at sites in Saudi Arabia, which represent the commercial exchange between China and the Arabic peninsula civilizations.

An area at the exhibition introduces the excavation work being implemented by the joint Saudi-Chinese team at the Al-Sereen site in Qunfudha governorate.

The National Museum in Beijing hosted “Roads of Arabia Expo,” the popular exhibition of Saudi archaeological masterpieces, in 2016, which was the first stop in its Asian tour after its hugely successful international tours hosted by four European cities and five cities in the US.

The SCTH has signed multiple agreements with other countries to organize similar exhibitions at the National Museum as part of its visiting exhibitions program.

http://www.arabnews.com/node/1371771/saudi-arabia

Sept 12, 2018 01:43 PM
BUSINESS & TECH
Saudi Arabia’s SABIC Joins Race to Supply China With Plastic
By Ke Dawei

A petroleum chemical plant is seen in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, in September 2017. Photo: VCG
Saudi Basic Industries Corp. (SABIC) has become the third international petrochemicals giant to announce plans to build a major complex in southern China in the last two months as the industry prepares for a boom in China’s demand for plastic.

SABIC has signed an agreement with the Fujian government to build a petrochemical complex in the southeastern Chinese province, according to an announcement on the company’s website. A location and time frame are not yet known.

The move “is part of SABIC’s strategy to diversify its operations, seek new strategic investment opportunities and strengthen its position in the Chinese market,” the announcement said.

SABIC’s plant comes amid an unprecedented boom in China’s petrochemicals sector, with at least 13 major projects planned or under construction, bringing around 1.37 million metric tons (1.51 million U.S. tons) of new capacity across the country, according to Reuters. While much of the new capacity is coming from domestic companies such as Sinopec Corp. and Hengli Petrochemical Co. Ltd., major international players are entering the competition.

Last week, ExxonMobil Corp. announced it is in advanced talks with the Guangdong government to build a “multibillion-dollar” petrochemical and liquefied natural gas (LNG) plant in the province. BASF SE, the world’s biggest chemicals company by sales, had signed a memorandum of understanding to build a $10 billion complex in the province just two months before.

At the heart of the expansion is ethylene, a versatile chemical that is a key ingredient in producing polyethylene, the most common plastic in the world. China is already a major market for the chemical, but demand is expected to skyrocket over the next decade, catalyzed by the government’s efforts to move the country’s economy up the production chain and into higher-value-added commodity production, according to information service ICIS. China will account for a third of global demand in petrochemicals over the next decade, IHS Markit reckons.

The U.S. boom in shale gas, which can be converted into ethylene, has largely met recent rising demand, but this period is coming to an end, said Steve Jenkins, vice president of consulting at Wood Mackenzie Chemicals.

“There’s been a lack of investment in ethylene facilities in Asia over the last four years because so much building has been going on in the U.S. in tandem with the shale boom, but there is now uncertainty over how much the U.S. can supply from a second wave of investment and real doubts that it can serve as the main source of ethylene derivatives supply for China,” he said.

This has led to a surge in companies looking to build “crackers,” which produce olefins, and other chemical facilities across Asia, Jenkins said. This is particularly true in Guangdong’s Pearl River Delta area, where BASF SE and ExxonMobil intend to build their plants. The province already benefits from extensive transportation infrastructure and a strong consumer goods manufacturing industry, a legacy of its status as the first area to begin experimenting with foreign investment through the reform and opening-up policies from the late 1970s that catapulted China’s economic transformation. SABIC is also positioning itself in a powerhouse that catapulted ahead thanks to its proximity to Taiwan.

“Building plants in Guangdong puts chemical producers in the same location as their customers, and in turn it also encourages more manufacturers to develop in the area, supporting the government’s efforts to push into higher-end, value-added production,” Jenkins said. While Chinese production costs have risen, an industry report from McKinsey & Co. said that they are nevertheless 10% to 50% cheaper than they are in Western countries.

Also of note in the surge in petrochemicals investment is the prominent role of the international private sector, rather than the domestic state-owned entities the government has typically relied on. “The state-owned companies have their hands full upgrading their plants to meet higher environmental standards as the government tries to reduce pollution, while they also pivot away from diesel-based heavy transport fuels to the more refined types demanded by China’s modern automobile industry,” Jenkins said.

“This is why China has invited the private sector to lead the development of petrochemicals associated with plastics. Private companies have the technology and capital to make these major investments. For the likes of ExxonMobil, BASF and SABIC, they recognize China is going to be dominating demand for decades to come, and so they are positioning themselves as important government partners early,” he added.

Contact reporter Ke Dawei (daweike@caixin.com)

https://www.caixinglobal.com/2018-0...e-to-supply-china-with-plastic-101325320.html

 

[Saif al-Arab]

^

https://twitter.com/x/status/1040239582200193025

 

[Saif al-Arab]

New Strategic Partnership Between China and Arab States
Published July 11th, 2018 - 13:35 GMT

The China-Arab States Cooperation Forum began its eighth ministerial meeting in Beijing on Tuesday to discuss ways to strengthen Arab-Chinese relations.

The Saudi delegation was led by Foreign Minister Adel Al-Jubeir, who is chairman of the current session.

In a speech at the opening ceremony, Chinese President Xi Jinping announced his intention to hold an international conference on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and expressed his support for the two-state solution and the Arab Peace Initiative.

China and Arab countries have agreed to establish a “future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development,” Xi said.

Kuwait’s Emir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah said: “We believe that boosting mechanisms of cooperation between us will contribute to achieving the supreme interests of our Arab nation and our friends, and to enhancing historical relations between the two sides, which we are keen to develop and promote in all fields.”

Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul Gheit said the ministerial session reflects the two sides’ keenness to deepen Arab-Chinese ties.

He urged China to continue its support for Arab issues, foremost among them the Palestinian cause.
On the sidelines of the ministerial meeting, Al-Jubeir delivered a lecture to the Middle East Studies Association.

Read More:

Kuwait Signs With China Crude Oil Joint Marketing Deal
China to Increase Investments in Jordan

He said: “Saudi-Chinese relations have been deepened by both countries’ belief in key principles, notably respecting the sovereignty of states and non-interference in their affairs.”
“Saudi Arabia launched its Vision 2030 reform plan to bolster the economy by reducing dependence on oil, attracting investors, and improving the transparency and performance of government institutions,” he said.

Vision 2030 also aims to create a climate of tolerance and moderation, confront extremism, and enable Saudi women to be partners in moving the Kingdom forward, he added.

Saudi Arabia considers itself an essential partner in China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), which will have a great economic and social impact on the world, and will contribute to regional security and stability, Al-Jubeir said.

Riyadh is consulting with Beijing on cooperation regarding the BRI, and on encouraging the Middle East to play a key role in the project, he added.

Al-Jubeir pointed to both sides’ keenness to intensify scientific exchanges, as the Kingdom has sent students to China for education and to become bridges between the two countries.

There are hundreds of Saudi students in Chinese universities, and the Kingdom has opened a branch of the King Abdul Aziz Public Library in Beijing to encourage exchanges between scholars, researchers and students in both countries, he said.

https://www.albawaba.com/business/new-strategic-partnership-between-china-and-arab-states-1157942

China's cultural relic exhibition kicks off in Saudi Arabia
Source: Xinhua| 2018-09-13 05:18:27|Editor: xuxin

A Saudi visitor takes pictures of the Terra-Cotta Warriors at the exhibition "Treasures of China" in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sept. 12, 2018. An exhibition featuring Chinese civilization opened on Wednesday at the National Museum in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh. (Xinhua/Tu Yifan)

RIYADH, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- An exhibition featuring Chinese civilization opened on Wednesday at the National Museum in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh, marking one of the largest cultural relic exhibitions hosted by China in the kingdom.

The exhibition "Treasures of China" includes 264 items provided by 13 museums and cultural institutions, such as the Palace Museum, among which 173 are Chinese cultural relics, including the globally known Terra-Cotta Warriors. Close to half the items have never been showcased outside China before.

Jointly hosted by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage of China (SACH) and Saudi Commission for Tourism and National Heritage, the exhibition also displayed the objects from Chinese-Saudi joint archaeological excavations at the ruins of al Sereen site.

The joint project has provided valuable physical references for archaeological research involved with the Maritime Silk Road and testified close encounters between China and the Red Sea area in ancient times, according to Hu Bing, deputy administrator of SACH.

The display consists of five sections in chronological order, starting with "Beginning of Civilization, Establishments of Etiquette," "the Unification, Consolidation and Development," "Prosperities and Diversified Communication," "Start-up of Business and Marine Trade," and "Palace and Royal Art."

The exhibition, which lasts until Nov. 23, aims to introduce the development of Chinese civilization, as well as showcase social life, culture and the arts of the country over thousands of years.

"We hope the exhibition can be a beautiful experience and memory of Saudi viewers and inspire them to come to the distant nation of China," Hu said.

A man visits the exhibition "Treasures of China" in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sept. 12, 2018. An exhibition featuring Chinese civilization opened on Wednesday at the National Museum in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh. (Xinhua/Tu Yifan)

Objects from Chinese-Saudi joint archaeological excavations at the ruins of al Sereen site are displayed at the exhibition "Treasures of China" in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on Sept. 12, 2018. An exhibition featuring Chinese civilization opened on Wednesday at the National Museum in Saudi Arabia's capital Riyadh. (Xinhua/Tu Yifan)

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2018-09/13/c_137463952_3.htm

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Saudi Arabia, China pledge to strengthen economic, military cooperation
Source: Xinhua| 2019-03-29 22:30:20|Editor: mingmei

Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud (R) meets with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, March 26, 2019. (Xinhua/Li Xiaowei)

RIYADH, March 29 (Xinhua) -- Saudi King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud pledged to strengthen economic and military cooperation with China, to promote peace and stability in the region.

He made the remarks during a meeting with visiting Chinese State Councilor and Minister of National Defense Wei Fenghe on Tuesday in Riyadh.

Saudi Arabia and China have a long-lasting friendship and their strategic relationship is under continuous development, he said, adding that the two countries are important cooperative partners of the Belt and Road Initiative.

"Saudi Arabia expects to increase bilateral economic cooperation and personnel exchanges, and deepen military collaboration, to jointly promote regional peace and stability," he said.

The initiative, proposed by China in 2013, refers to the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road, which aim at building a trade and infrastructure network connecting Asia with Europe and Africa along the ancient trade routes of the Silk Road.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud said that bilateral cooperation in all fields has yielded fruitful results, and Saudi Arabia is willing to strengthen cooperation with China in politics, economy and security, during a meeting with Wei.

The crown prince expressed expectation for the two militaries to carry out more pragmatic cooperation and expand new areas, as military cooperation is an important cornerstone of the Saudi Arabia-China relationship.

Wei said that China attaches great importance to its relationship with Saudi Arabia and their relationship has become a model for state-to-state relations.

Under the leadership of the two states, the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries has undergone in-depth development.

The Belt and Road Initiative and the Saudi Vision 2030 reform plan have a broad prospect and bilateral military ties have maintained a sound momentum of growth, Wei said.

"China is willing to work with the Saudi military to implement the consensus of the leaders of the two countries, expand pragmatic cooperation, and promote bilateral military relations," Wei added.

Wei also held talks on Wednesday with Saudi Arabia's Assistant Minister of Defense Mohammad bin Abdullah Al-Ayesh.

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-03/29/c_137934740.htm

Exclusive: US intel shows Saudi Arabia escalated its missile program with help from China

https://edition.cnn.com/2019/06/05/...udi-arabia-ballistic-missile-china/index.html

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Saudi Arabia, China have established ‘comprehensive strategic partnership’

1 / 2

2 / 2
Updated 03 August 2019
LOJIEN BEN GASSEM
August 03, 2019

• Chinese Embassy counselor says the two sides have also enhanced political trust

RIYADH: Zhu Xinglong, counselor at the Chinese Embassy in Riyadh, said Saudi Arabia and China have established a comprehensive strategic partnership.

Discussing Chinese-Saudi bilateral relations during an interview, he said: “The two countries have set up the China-Saudi Arabia high-level joint committee.”
“The two sides have also enhanced political trust and maintained good momentum in pragmatic cooperation in the fields of economy, trade, energy, science, technology, education and culture, and have achieved fruitful results. The complementarity between the Belt and Road Initiative and the Saudi 2030 Vision has great potential,” he said.
Incorporating the Chinese language into the education curriculum in Saudi schools would have a profound influence on China-Saudi relations, he said. “Next year we will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Saudi Arabia. Thanks to 30 years of joint effort, the more mature, stable and profound China-Saudi relations will further serve the common interests of the two countries.”
He described how his government is determined to implement the “One Country, Two Systems” policy.
“During the recent demonstrations and violent attacks in Hong Kong, some irresponsible people in Western countries made some irresponsible remarks and played a disgraceful role,” Xinglong said. “I would like to reiterate here that Hong Kong is China’s Hong Kong and Hong Kong affairs should not be interfered with by external forces.”
Xinglong said that Hong Kong was under attack and the violence had been going on for more than a month. “The radical demonstrators have escalated violence. They violently attacked the legislative council, ruined the facilities and smeared the Hong Kong special administrative region emblem; they blocked the liaison office of the central government and defiled the national emblem, which makes the situation even more critical.”
“This has seriously affected the rule of law, social order, economic livelihood and international image of Hong Kong,” he said.
Xinglong said that the Chinese government would continue to support the chief executive, Lin Zhengyue, and the government of the special administrative region, uniting people to safeguard Hong Kong according to the law and to handle the current problems.

Next year we will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Saudi Arabia.

Zhu Xinglong, Counselor at the Chinese Embassy, Riyadh

Xinglong also discussed China-US relations and trade talks. “History and realism prove that China and US will both benefit from cooperation and will both suffer from conflict. It is normal for both sides to have a disagreement in economic and trade fields, and it is crucial to deal with it properly in the spirit of mutual respect and equality and benefit, and to find a solution that both sides accept.”
During the 12th round of China-US high-level trade talks in Shanghai, Xinglong said that the two sides achieved frank and constructive communication.
Xinglong said that the two sides also discussed China increasing the purchase of American agricultural commodities according to China’s needs, and the US providing good conditions for such a purchase.
The Chinese economy was expanding, with 6.3 percent growth in the first half of 2019, Xinglong said. “China is determined to implement economic structural reform and industrial transforming and upgrading, release the dynamics of the market through reform and innovation, and to maintain the momentum of a stable and positive economy.”
President Xi Jinping had announced at the Osaka G20 summit that China would further carry out measures to open up the Chinese market, he said. “Greater initiative will be demonstrated in expanding imports, more steps will be taken to improve the business environment, equal treatment will be extended to all foreign investment, and greater efforts will be made to advance trade talks to accelerate the opening-up and achievement of high-quality development.”

http://www.arabnews.com/node/1534636/saudi-arabia

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Interview: Xi's message to Arab summit reflects political will to deepen China-Arab cooperation -- official

TUNIS, April 1 (Xinhua) -- Chinese President Xi Jinping's congratulatory message on the opening of the Arab League (AL) summit reflects well the political will to deepen China-Arab cooperation, a senior official of the regional bloc said on Monday.

Kamal Hassen Ali, assistant secretary general of AL, lauded Xi's positive comments on the deep-rooted China-Arab traditional friendship.

"The congratulatory message from President Xi Jinping indicates the importance both sides attach to the China-Arab cooperation, and the aspiration of both sides to strengthen bilateral ties," he told Xinhua in an interview on the sidelines of the second China-Arab BDS Cooperation Forum held in Tunis.

BDS refers to the BeiDou Navigation Satellite System indigenously developed by China to provide global positioning and messaging services. China and Arab states are working to deepen their cooperation on boosting the BDS application in Arab countries.

Xi sent the message on Sunday to Tunisian President Beji Caid Essebsi, the rotating AL president who presided over the 30th Arab League Summit held in the Tunisian capital of Tunis.

In his message, Xi praised the AL's efforts to promote peace, stability and development in the Middle East, and recalled the agreement between the two sides in last July to establish a future-oriented strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development, which was a new starting point for Sino-Arab cooperation.

"The China-Arab relations are based on solid ground, as was shown in the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum. The cooperation and exchanges have been witnessed in many sectors, including energy, environment, transport, communication and satellite navigation. This demonstrates the political will of both sides to elevate and deepen bilateral cooperation," the AL official said.

"The China-Arab strategic partnership will further develop into a lasting stable relationship beyond time and space. We will definitely seek to enhance cooperation with China in building the Silk Road both in land and on the sea," he added.

On the future of China-Arab cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), Ali said he was very optimistic.

Firstly, the Arab area boasts geographic importance, as it serves as a hub connecting China to Europe and Africa. Secondly, China and Arab states are deepening cooperation not only through increasing political and cultural exchanges, but also through building such projects as ports, renewable energy, power transmission, environmental protection and satellite navigation, Ali explained.

"I am very optimistic about the future cooperation between China and the Arab world under the BRI, as the cooperation will benefit both sides and even the rest of the world," he said.

http://www.xinhuanet.com/english/2019-04/02/c_137943348.htm

4TH CHINA-ARAB STATES EXPO AND THE 3RD CHINA-ARAB ECONOMIC SUMMIT

• Ningxia, China
  
• 5 - 8 September 2019

The 4th China-Arab States Expo and the 3rd China-Arab Economic Summit will be held on 5-8 September 2019 in Ningxia, China, noting that the summit will be held on 5 and 6 September 2019.

China-Arab States Expo is an international expo at the national-level jointly sponsored by Ministry of Commerce of China, China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT) and Government of Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

Since 2010, three sessions of China-Arab Economic Trade Cooperation Forum and three sessions of China-Arab States Expo were held, producing broad and profound impact on the international arena.

The China-Arab States Expo is widely recognized by countries along the Belt and Road including the Arab States.

In January 2016, the Chinese President Xi Jinping stated in his speech at the Arab League headquarters: “China-Arab States Expo has become an important platform for China and Arab States to jointly build the Belt and Road”.

For more information please visit this link:

https://www.cas-expo.org/web/pages/index

http://uac-org.org/en/Activities/details/1896

 

[Saddam Hussein]

It's a shame that the Arab world is shattered as it is today whilst all the 22 countries share borders and share the same language

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

In 3 days time the yearly China-Arab Economic Summit will take place in the Hui stronghold of Ningxia.

Those two videos below are from the Arab-China Cooperation forum in Beijing.

It's a shame that the Arab world is shattered as it is today whilst all the 22 countries share borders and share the same language

Only parts of it (small overall in fact) but great/glorious times will return. Most of recorded history was incredibly successful. We have everything to become a beacon of admiration again. History proves it. We are living our worst years in recorded history and have in the past few centuries in fact. The future however is bright. I have zero doubt about it.

Interesting looking video: Will watch it soon.

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Economic Exchange Anchors China-Arab Ties
The China-Arab States Expo spotlights the growing economic relationship between China and the Middle East.

Kuwait's ruling emir, Sheikh Sabah Al Ahmad Al Sabah, center left, and Chinese President Xi Jinping arrive for the opening session of the 8th Ministerial Meeting of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in Beijing, July 10, 2018.
Image Credit: AP Photo/Mark Schiefelbein

Chinese representatives are set to meet with Arab delegations for the fourth China-Arab States Expo in Yinchuan city, Ninghai Hui Autonomous Region from September 5 to 8. The gathering, intended to bolster economic and trade exchanges between Beijing and partners in the Middle East and North Africa, will focus on agricultural issues such as rural revitalization, desertification, and the further development of new technologies. China is simultaneously hosting an Online Silk Road conference in Ningxia on internet cooperation and internet related industries including cross-border e-commerce and investment and capacity building.

The expo is one of a handful of multilateral vehicles to deepen relations between Beijing and governments in the Middle East and North Africa, and supplements the Arab-China Political Strategic Dialogue that most recently was held in June in Abu Dhabi. The more comprehensive China-Arab States Cooperation Forum (CASCF) was first established in 2004 to foster better exchanges between Beijing and members of the Arab League. Nearly a decade and a half later, the CASCF was upgraded to a “strategic partnership of comprehensive cooperation and common development” during a gathering of more than 300 representatives from Chinese and Arab delegations. Separately, negotiations for a regional free trade agreement between China and the six member countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates) started more than 10 years ago and seem to have faded from public discussions, while the notion of a broader FTA among 21 Arab states has been raised.

The economic relationship has steadily solidified as China has sought to import increasing amounts of energy resources from the region’s oil and gas rich states. However, both sides have pushed to diversify relations through financial and banking cooperation, renewable energy, and high technology collaboration, sectors with increased demand in Arab countries and in which China is playing a major development role. China is one of the group’s leading investors and its second largest trading partner with trade volume between China and the Arab League hitting $244.3 billion in 2018, up from $36.7 billion in 2004.

Some Arab states may also be looking to China as a model for their own economic development: pursuing economic liberalization while maintaining tight political control and using various tools of domestic repression. Chinese President Xi Jinping’s extension of the Belt and Road Initiative and the promotion of greater connectivity has been particularly welcomed among Arab states.

While China, under Xi’s leadership, has been more active within multilateral forums amid uncertainty about the U.S. commitment to international leadership, its regional efforts are reinforced by grand state-to-state exchanges. Bilaterally, leaders in China and in Arab states have hosted a series of high-profile visits, full of billion dollar deal announcements including $28 billion in cooperation agreements with Saudi Arabia, projects to invest in and develop an airport area in the United Arab Emirates, and last year’s pledge from Xi of more than $20 billion in loans, humanitarian assistance, and development aid to Arab countries.

Economics and trade continue to be the focal point of Sino-Arab relations, but such ties cannot be completely bifurcated from the complex and dynamic political and security conditions in the region. In fact, there are some indications that China may seek to become more involved in security-related matters in the region. For example, last year Xi said “China would like to join the Arab countries … to become the keeper of peace and stability in the Middle East, the defender of equity and justice, promoter of joint development, and good friends that learn from each other.” However, in such a fraught security environment, it remains to be seen precisely how BRI investments translate into tangible vehicles of peace and stability. For the moment, beyond rhetorical messaging, China still seems a way off from making the step from investor to security mediator or provider.

https://thediplomat.com/2019/08/economic-exchange-anchors-china-arab-ties/

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Deals Worth $26 Billion Signed at 2019 China-Arab States Expo

Sunday, 8 September, 2019 - 07:30

Beijing - Asharq Al-Awsat
A total of 287 deals worth about 185.42 billion yuan (26 billion US dollars) have been signed at the fourth China-Arab States Expo in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, announced the Expo's Organizing Committee in a statement.

The signed projects cover multiple areas including modern agriculture, high technology, equipment manufacturing, infrastructure, tourism, capacity cooperation, industrial park construction and Internet plus healthcare.

The new cooperation is expected to add momentum to the pursuit of the "Belt and Road Initiative" and bring new development opportunities to the countries participating in the initiative, according to the statement.

This year's China-Arab States Expo kicked off Thursday in Ningxia's regional capital Yinchuan and will run until Sunday.

It has brought together 12,600 participants from 2,900 regional organizations, commerce chambers, associations and enterprises in 89 countries.

Inaugurated in 2013, the biennial event has become an important platform for China and Arab countries to jointly pursue the "Belt and Road Initiative."

https://aawsat.com/english/home/art...26-billion-signed-2019-china-arab-states-expo

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

China-Arab expo boosts high-quality Belt and Road growth
Advertisement feature for

Promoting exchange: China signs co-operation documents with 18 other Arab countries for the joint construction of the BRI

• Huan Xiang, Chen Shangwen and Zhang Jinruo, People’s Daily Online

20 SEPTEMBER 2019 • 10:00AM

President Xi Jinping sends congratulations to event in north-central China where a total of 362 deals, worth about ¥185.42bn ($26bn), were signed
The fourth China-Arab States Expo was held in the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region, north-central China, on 5-8 September. Chinese President Xi Jinping sent a congratulatory message to the opening ceremony of the event.

A total of 362 deals worth about ¥185.42bn ($26bn) were signed at the expo.

The event, adhering to the principle of extensive consultation, joint contribution and shared benefits, served well as a comprehensive national platform opening to the world. It focused on economic and trade co-operation and highlighted pragmatic results.

More than 2,900 regional organisations, chambers of commerce, associations and enterprises from 107 delegations in 89 countries attended the opening ceremony, as well as eight exhibitions and investment promotion activities, four conferences and forums, and serial activities about the theme province, Jiangsu.

A series of negotiations and investigations about trade, high-tech, Internet Plus, digital economy, infrastructure and capacity co-operation were held during the expo, facilitating the reaching of a batch of co-operation agreements and practical results, which further demonstrated the role of the event to serve the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and promote economic and trade exchange.

Boydiel Houmeid, vice-president of the national assembly of Mauritania, delivered a speech at the opening ceremony of the expo, noting that Arab countries hope to establish a model of international co-operation featuring zero external interference, mutual understanding, mutual respect and win-win results It is believed that more opportunities will be created for China-Arab States co-operation, said Houmeid.


So far, China has signed co-operation documents on joint construction of the BRI with 18 Arab countries
China and Arab countries are seeing increasingly broad prospects for bilateral co-operation, said Shi Taifeng, secretary of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC), emphasising that Ningxia will make good use of the important platform of the China-Arab States Expo to promote high-quality development of the BRI, so as to build a bridge between the enterprises from both China and Arab countries.

China and Arab countries have many ideas, opportunities and measures to be implemented that will all help promote economicand trade exchanges between the two sides, especially in areas with comparative advantages such as agriculture, energy, technology and industry, said Mahmoud Hassan Elamin, director of the Arab League representative office in Beijing.

A series of technology-themed activities were held during the expo, bringing technological co-operation into focus, including a modern agriculture exhibition and agricultural co-operation dialogue, innovative and advanced technologies and equipment exhibition, a technological achievements promotion and matchmaking meeting, and the China-Arab States technology transfer and innovation co-operation conference.

In September 2015, the China-Arab States agricultural technology transfer centre was set up in Ningxia as one of the moves to put President Xi’s important proposal, the Belt and Road Initiative, into practice.

Working together for a better future: the China-Arab states expo promotes economic and trade exchanges between China and Arab nations
Over the past four years, eight bilateral technology transfer centres have been established in Arab nations by the national-level comprehensive cross-border technology transfer centre through co-operation with relevant institutes.

Meanwhile, the centre has also held multiple cross-border training sessions for technical personnel and facilitated a number of transfer and demonstration projects of advanced technologies between China and Arab nations, such as the prevention and elimination of date palm pests.

The efforts to jointly build technology transfer centres have been productive, said Mahmoud Sakr, Egyptian vice-minister of higher education and scientific research, who on behalf of Egypt signed a memorandum of understanding with China on the establishment of the China-Egypt technology transfer centre two years ago.


More than 2,900 regional organisations, chambers of commerce, associations and enterprises from 107 delegations in 89 countries attended the opening ceremony
The China-Egypt transfer centre offered opportunities for nearly 50 officials and young Egyptian scientists to go to China for training in such areas as innovation, incubators and scientific park operation, Sakr said, adding that the two countries have carried out co-operation in four areas, including smart agriculture and remote sensing technology.

It represents an important driving force for the development of scientific and technological innovation in Egypt, said Sakr.

So far, China has signed co-operation documents on joint construction of the BRI with 18 Arab countries. As an important China-Arab platform for BRI construction, the China-Arab States Expo has played a positive role in promoting economic and trade exchanges and co-operation between China and Belt and Road countries, including Arab nations.

The Chinese-built railway has significantly facilitated communication between Djibouti and the outside world, Aboubaker Omar Hadi, chairman of the Djibouti Ports and Free Zones Authority (DPFZA), told People’s Daily.

The modern electric railway, connecting coastal and inland areas and operating on clean energy, largely reduces transport costs, said Hadi, extending his appreciation for China’s assistance in Djibouti’s infrastructure construction.

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/peoples-daily-online/business/fourth-china-arab-states-expo/

 

[ArabianEmpires&Caliphates]

Khashoggi killing could drive Saudi Arabia into China’s arms

• Where Western executives fear to tread, Chinese companies will rush in

https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/geop...-killing-could-drive-saudi-arabia-chinas-arms

How Jamal Khashoggi's death brought China and Saudi Arabia closer together

https://www.alaraby.co.uk/english/i...s-death-brought-China-and-Saudi-Arabia-closer