China is in the middle of a complex diplomatic dance with West Asia, by engaging rivals such as Syria, Saudi Arabia, Israel and Iran, all at the same time. Israel hopes to participate in the Belt and Road Initiative — fast becoming a litmus test defining the health of any nation’s ties with China. “The complexity of Middle East affairs should be fully recognised. China is faced with a complicated geopolitical situation, and the Middle East is not in the core area of China’s diplomatic interests,” opines the daily. To strengthen its economic power and partnership in a low-profile manner is the right strategy for China's Middle East policy.”

Source: The Hindu March 23, 2017 00:39 UTC