Impact of Growing US-China Rivalry on China’s Relations with Israel

• In Event: China Under Xi Jinping: Internal and External Challenges

Abstract

Why has Israel become a new and hot destination for Chinese investment? How has the Belt and Road Initiative expanded into Israel? What are the opportunities and challenges in China-Israel relations? Why is the United States concerned about growing Chinese investment in Israel? How can China and the United States manage their rivalry?
This paper will attempt to answer these questions by examining the rationale, tactics, and significance of Chinese expanding trade with and investment in Israel. It suggests that China-Israel relations have huge potentials and many challenges, with the United States being a critical third party to the relationship. Since both consider the United States the most important partner, China and Israel will need to address security concerns from the United States before they can fully develop the relationship.

Author

• Zhiqun Zhu, Bucknell University