The Evolving Israel-China Relationship

Abstract

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Conclusion: The Next Decade and Beyond

“…In recent years, bilateral relations have been far from perfect. However, looking ahead, we share the vision in Shira Efron's recent study (The Future of Israeli-Turkish Relations RAND Corporation, see Efron et al 2019). This short, but comprehensive study of the bilateral relations, especially from an Israeli perspective at the beginning of 1918, is useful as a pragmatic guide.…”

China and Israel: Evolving Relationship within the Belt and Road Initiative

“…22 During Netanyahu's visit to China in March 2017, President Xi announced the intention of the two countries to consistently promote major joint projects as part of the jointly building of the BRI. Prime Minister Netanyahu also expressed the readiness of the Israeli side to actively participate in infrastructure and other cooperation within the framework of BRI, 23 and declared that Chinese-Israeli ties are 'a marriage made in heaven.' 24 Chinese Prime Minister Li Keqiang reminded that 'the Chinese people and the Jewish people are the great nations of the world.'…”

“…31 Since BRI routes require not only seaports, but also railways, logistics centres, warehouses, airports, as well as hardware and software for the transportation system, Israeli companies can contribute to BRI projects by developing and integrating transport and logistics technologies and related systems, for example, for trains, aircraft and marine equipment. 32 Through BRI, China seeks to play a more active role in the Middle East, and improved ties with Israel could offset China's historically closer ties with other countries in the region, including Iran and Israel's Arab neighbours. 33 Some Chinese authors even see Israel's location next to the Arab states as a 'balancing factor' that can 'give credibility to Chinese soft power in the region,' considering Israel's limited role in the BRI due to its small size, bounded transport links with countries in its region and lack of experience in large-scale projects.…”

“…33 Some Chinese authors even see Israel's location next to the Arab states as a 'balancing factor' that can 'give credibility to Chinese soft power in the region,' considering Israel's limited role in the BRI due to its small size, bounded transport links with countries in its region and lack of experience in large-scale projects. 34 Tel Aviv's deep ties with the US and the EU can help China expand its ties in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East, and Sino-Israeli ties can enhance Israel's role in trade between Asia and Europe. 35 Chinese companies involved in national infrastructure and construction projects in Israel have good experience in implementing infrastructure projects at a lower price and in a shorter time.…”

“…111 Israeli company Nextec Technologies, which developed measurement technology for the automotive and aviation industries, was acquired by a Chinese company in 2014. 112 China has become a major buyer of Israeli agricultural technology from companies such as Netafim, the world leader in drip irrigation systems. 113 Chinese investors are interested in several of Israel's largest arms exporters-Israel Aerospace Industries, Rafael, and Elbit Systems.…”