الملخص الإنجليزي
The rapid rise of China as a global power has generated a shift in the geopolitical landscape, particularly in the GCC countries, where the United States and the United Kingdom have traditionally held influence. This research examines the complex economic interdependence and evolving geopolitical relationship between China and the GCC. The study demonstrates how China's increasing demand for oil and willingness to invest in GCC infrastructures has led to a deepening economic interdependence, which, in turn, is significantly altering political dynamics. The study further explores the shifts in military partnerships, focusing on arms exports and technology transfer. It considers the potential risks for the GCC countries, whose economies heavily rely on oil revenues, in aligning too closely with China—a shift explained by weakening relations with traditional Western allies. Chapter 1 is focusing on the structure of the thesis like the objectives of the study, the main questions this thesis is aiming to answer, the limitations and the theoretical framework as well as the literature review of the previous sources that contributed to this topic. Chapter 2 highlights the economic relationships and explores vital sectors like energy and oil security, trade, telecommunication and the BRI. A relationship that benefits both parties and leads to win-win situation without interfering in the internal affairs of the Gulf states, which shed light on a potential challenge to the U.S.'s long standing influence in the Gulf. Lastly, in chapter 3 the study recommends strategies for the GCC to diversify their economic partnerships to mitigate risks associated with an asymmetric interdependent economic relationship with China. This thesis argues that while the economic ties between the GCC and China are strengthening, the politico-military relationships are far from reaching the point of replacing Western alliances. The findings contribute to the growing literature on China-GCC relations and offer policy implications for both sides in navigating this interdependent relationship.
