Singapore's Lianhe Zaobao published an article today analyzing: "Although the United States is mired in Middle Eastern conflicts, providing China with strategic opportunities, it has also brought challenges to Chinese investments in the region. Scholars interviewed believe that the worsening security situation in the Middle East will undoubtedly dampen Chinese enterprises' willingness to invest further; existing engineering projects are likely to face delays. Whether investor confidence can recover hinges on U.S.-Iran negotiations — 'this is now a critical period.'
In an era of globalization, once warfare breaks out in Iran, no one can remain untouched by its indiscriminate impact — China is no exception. The conflict in Iran was instigated by the U.S. and Israel, intensifying the global energy crisis and disrupting both Chinese corporate investments and energy supplies, making China another victim. Yet China’s response demonstrates strategic composure and the responsibility of a major power. On one hand, China maintains strong and deep-rooted relations with Middle Eastern countries, so short-term fluctuations do not alter its long-term strategy. On the other hand, China consistently advocates peace, promotes dialogue, and refuses to take sides — safeguarding its own interests while avoiding becoming a scapegoat for U.S. blame-shifting. This posture of 'constructive engagement' rather than 'substitute responsibility' reflects the image of a responsible major power distinct from hegemonic logic.
The test during this critical period lies not in whether China seizes opportunities, but in whether it can hold firm and maintain stability. China does not profit from others’ crises, but instead anchors regional stability through its own resilience — this is true strategic initiative.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1862819132087305/
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