This was underscored by the presence of Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi at the OIC meet in Pakistan. Several countries in the WANA region are seeking China’s support for infrastructure and technology as part of the wider BRI. While the OIC meet resolution focussed on Islamophobia, there was no mention of the plight of Uyghurs. Turkey was the only country which expressed concern over Uyghur rights.
However, Turkey is developing closer ties with China in various sectors and last month Turk Telecom signed a MoU with Huawei to develop a standard for 5G for broadband cellular networks, ET has learnt. Close on the heels of that Turkish sovereign wealth fund acquired 55 per cent of Turk Telecom’s stakes affirming China-Turkey ties, sources informed.
Simultaneously, China is also engaging with OIC’s most influential state – Saudi Arabia and President Xi Jinping is planning a trip to Riyadh this year. Last month eight Chinese defence firms participated in the World Defence Show in Riyadh and showcased air defence system, artillery system, anti-air-radar system and transport aircraft, ET has learnt. Saudi Arabia will also have military drones built by China Electronics Technology Group Cooperation. Saudi Aramco is interested in downstream project in China, sources indicated.
Iraq, yet another Arab state, will see state-owned China Power build four dams in the Kurdistan region. This would address the issue of water scarcity in the Kurdistan region. Iraq and China have decided to coordinate closely in various multilateral forums.
Algeria, Oman and Qatar have also sought to expand their ties with Beijing. Oman has shown interest to develop its space program with support of China, ET has learnt. China has also offered training to Oman in the space sector. The Algerian Foreign Minister visited China in March to affirm Algeria’s willingness to sign BRI related documents at an early date. When the Qatari Foreign Minister visited China also in March he assured Wang Yi on promoting Chinese investments in Qatar. The Qatari FM reportedly assured Wang on GCC-China FTA.
