March 16, 2022
2 mins read

China now plays key financial role in Iraq

Chinese companies, Power Corporation of China and Sinotech, are currently finalizing the sub-contracting to build 1000 schools in Iraq…reports Asian Lite News

China has emerged as a key financial player in Iraq amid its policy of fostering deeper economic ties with the Middle East in recent years.

Valentin Popescu, writing in a think tank, Policy Research Group (POREG) said that China is strategically leveraging Iraqi reconstruction efforts by building energy and connectivity infrastructure projects under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI).

It is also constructing schools and opening language training centres in Iraqi Universities. With the end of the US combat mission in Iraq, Beijing is pushing its energy projects with Baghdad under the BRI with overall investment to the tune of USD 10.5 billion, making Iraq the third most important partner of Chinese energy engagement.

Chinese companies, Power Corporation of China and Sinotech, are currently finalizing the sub-contracting to build 1000 schools in Iraq under the ‘oil for reconstruction’ programme signed with the Iraqi government in December 2021, reported POREG.

Beijing is also promoting the Chinese language and culture in Iraq. The Chinese Language Department in Salahaddin University, Erbil, offers language training and education to Iraqi students and also conducts events that create a positive image of China.

These efforts are apparently part of Beijing’s policy of fostering deeper economic ties with Middle East countries by taking advantage of a growing perception among Arab leaders that the US is disengaging from the region, said Popescu.

It is also attributed to Beijing’s growing appetite for Middle Eastern energy and increasing trade with the Gulf States. Iraq is already the third-biggest exporter of oil to China. Baghdad appears more than willing to receive Chinese investment to help upgrade war-ravaged and decaying infrastructure.

Beijing views Iraq as a less controversial investment destination in the region with a great deal of untapped potential and easy access. For China, the Iraqi government and people are easier to negotiate and to do business as the country is trying hard to rebuild infrastructure and push up economic growth. China also sees Iraq as a fertile base for its expansion plan in the Middle East, said Popescu. (ANI)

ALSO READ: China ready to help Russia in Ukraine?

Previous Story

Shane Watson joins Delhi Capitals as assistant coach

Next Story

Anti-Taliban protest blocks key highway in Northern Afghanistan

Latest from -Top News

India fast-tracks FTAs as US drags feet

As India cements its position as a global trading force with a flurry of new free trade agreements, including a landmark pact with the United Kingdom, negotiations with the United States continue

Modi Lands in Malé for Big Day

PM Modi is visiting the Maldives at the invitation of President Muizzu to participate as the Guest of Honour at the country’s 60th Independence Day celebrations…reports Asian Lite News Prime Minister Narendra

Industry Hails India-UK FTA

£34 billion boost, sweeping tariff cuts and market access mark UK’s most ambitious post-Brexit trade pact; Indian sectors set for exports surge…reports Asian Lite News Business leaders from both India and the

India, UK Sign Landmark FTA

The pact is set to make imported goods like Scotch whisky, gin, luxury cars, cosmetics, and medical devices more affordable for Indian consumers….reports Asian Lite News In a landmark moment for India-UK
Go toTop

Don't Miss

Conciliation efforts no deterrent to Sino-Pakistan threat

An upward shift in anti-India capabilities needs to be factored

CPEC entering Afghanistan

Foreign ministers of Pakistan, china and Afghanistan emphasised the need