IMPORTANCE OF DIPLOMACY – IRAN-SAUDI –CHINA

NEWS: Diplomacy, with a change in terms of reference

https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/lead/diplomacy-with-a-change-in-terms-of-reference/article66744976.ece

• In a joint statement on March 10, 2023, by Iran, Saudi Arabia, and China, an agreement has been reached between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Islamic Republic of Iran.
• It covers a resumption of diplomatic relations between them and a re-opening of their embassies and missions within a period not exceeding two months.

What is the Conflict between Iran and Saudi Arabia?

• Saudi Arabia broke off ties with Iran in 2016 after protesters invaded Saudi diplomatic posts after Saudi Arabia had executed a prominent Shiite cleric days earlier.
• Saudi Arabia has long portrayed itself as the world’s leading Sunni nation while Iran views itself as the protector of the Islam’s Shiite minority.
• Attacks on Saudi Arabia: Iran was blamed for a series of attacks including one targeting the heart of Saudi Arabia’s oil industry in 2019.
• Regional Cold War: Saudi Arabia and Iran – two powerful neighbors – are locked in a fierce struggle for regional dominance.
• Uprisings across the Arab world (after the Arab Spring in 2011) caused political instability throughout the region.
• Iran and Saudi Arabia expand their influence, notably in Syria, Bahrain and Yemen, further heightening mutual suspicions

What is the agreement?

• Agreement to restore diplomatic ties which have been severed since 2016.
• The agreement reinstates two previous accords:
  • On security cooperation signed in 2001
  • Dealing with economic, technical, scientific and cultural ties.
• This agreement ends seven years of diplomatic estrangement between the two Gulf neighbors.
• China’s Foreign Affairs Minister: He described it as a “victory for dialogue, a victory for peace”.
• The Saudi Foreign Minister said: Saudi “favored political solutions and dialogue.
• Iranian Foreign minister: affirmed that his country was pursuing “the preparation of more regional steps”.
• The agreement affirmed their respect
  • For the sovereignty of states
  • Non-interference in the internal affairs of states
  • Ministers of Foreign Affairs of both countries shall meet to implement this
  • Arrange for the return of their Ambassadors
  • Discuss means of enhancing bilateral relations.

IMPORTANCE OF WEST ASIA FOR CHINA:

• West Asia is crucial for the realization of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)
• Regional states being important for logistical connectivity, and investment, consultancy and contracting partnerships.
• China’s interests require a stable regional environment.

Importance of West Asia for India and the Indian stand:

• The historical linkages and the region is in India’s proximate neighborhood and within its security parameters.
• It is the principal source of hydrocarbon imports, and increasingly of investments.
• It is an important destination for manpower exports apart from being a major trading partner including projects.

Practice Questions for Prelims

Consider the following statements and choose the correct options :
1. Recently Iran and Saudi Arabia have restored their ties with the mediation of China through the deal called JCPOA.
2. Both Iran and Saudi Arabia border with Jordan. 
3. Iran borders Persian Gulf while Saudi Arabia borders both Persian Gulf and the Red Sea. 
Options : 
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 only  
c) 3 only
d) All of the above

Ans. c)

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