Indian media: China has shown how to turn economic power into regional influence
The re-establishment of diplomatic relations between two longtime rivals, Iran and Saudi Arabia, under a Chinese-brokered deal, has far-reaching implications for the global policy, writes indian news Telangana Today website.
The rapprochement between the two Gulf powers, which came after years of proxy conflicts, reflects the new diplomatic prowess of the Chinese state. The agreement was proclaimed in Beijing, which is also a sign of a shift in the balance and dynamics of power in the region as the United States continues to decline in influence.
For India, this is a reflection of Beijing's real role on the global agenda. However, New Delhi will also benefit from this deal. Iran and Saudi Arabia are two major oil producers and any conflict between them could lead to price spikes that could have a significant impact on India's energy security as well. The normalization of relations would also stabilize oil supplies. Moreover, both Islamic powers are important trading partners of India, which has strong economic and strategic interests in the Middle East, including the North-South International Transport Corridor
- claims the publication.
By keeping a vigilant eye on China's growing influence in the region and working to secure its strategic interests in the Middle East, India can play a role in promoting dialogue and cooperation between Iran and Saudi Arabia, helping to achieve stability.
Under an agreement brokered by Beijing, Iran and Saudi Arabia will reopen their embassies, guaranteeing respect for each other's sovereignty and reaffirming the validity of previously signed treaties. The agreement could have implications for US efforts to isolate Iran economically through sanctions.
Saudi Arabia severed ties with Iran in 2016 after protesters in Tehran invaded the territory of Saudi diplomatic missions following the execution of a prominent Shia cleric in Riyadh.
Saudi Arabia has long portrayed itself as the world's leading Sunni nation, while Iran sees itself as the protector of Shia Islam. Both countries are engaged in many proxy fights in Yemen, Syria and Bahrain.
The first and most important test of the deal is in Yemen, where a Saudi-led coalition has been fighting Iranian-backed Houthi rebels since 2015.
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