DefinePK

Abstract

This paper tabulates the underground current of China’s policy move from a completely non-interventionist, almost a-political power to one that leverages its economic weight to secure its economic interests through ‘active engagement’. China's foreign policy has moved from nearly a stoical non-interventionist approach to a more engaged honest broker, indicating a shift from soft power to smart power. China has traditionally adhered to non-interference, emphasizing sovereignty and mutual respect. However, as China's worldwide influence grew, this rigorous approach proved increasingly impractical. Chinese new policy is more influential in regional affairs without compromising any fundamental values.  China has expanded its influence and worldwide reach through strategic alliances, cultural diplomacy, and economic investments. This strategy embodies smart power because it blends aspects of hard power, like economic and military might, with soft power, such as ideological and diplomatic appeal. This research examines the important causes that contributed to this transformation. The two main questions addressed in this paper are: (1) How has China's shift from a non-interventionist to a more interventionist foreign policy been influenced by its economic and energy interests in the Middle East? and (2) How is China's evolving Middle East policy affecting the larger geopolitical balance and competition with Western powers, particularly the United States?