Chinese President's Visit to Saudi Arabia Expected to Bolster Investments in CPEC Project, According to Experts

Anticipated Collaboration Aims to Further Strengthen Economic Ties between China, Saudi Arabia, and Pakistan

P.c. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Chinese President's Visit to Saudi Arabia Expected to Bolster Investments in CPEC Project, According to Experts


Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visit to Saudi Arabia is poised to bolster investments in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), according to former ambassadors to Beijing and international experts cited in Arab News.

Xi's visit to Saudi Arabia comes at a pivotal moment when Riyadh is actively expanding its global partnerships, extending beyond its traditional Western alliances. During his stay, Xi is set to engage with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and leaders from Gulf Arab states. The visit is expected to result in the signing of more than 20 agreements, totaling over $29.3 billion, and discussions on aligning Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 with China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI, encompassing the CPEC, is Xi's landmark infrastructure investment program.

P.c. China-Pakistan Economic Corridor

Under the CPEC initiative, China has committed over $60 billion to various sectors in Pakistan, spanning energy, infrastructure, agriculture, IT, and more. At the heart of this project lies the Chinese-funded deep-water port in Gwadar, located in Pakistan's Balochistan province.

Pakistani experts anticipate that discussions during Xi's meetings with the Saudi Crown Prince will revolve around Saudi Arabia's substantial investment in the CPEC and its interest in the BRI. Naghmana Hashmi, Pakistan's former ambassador to China, emphasized Saudi Arabia's keenness to become a part of the CPEC and its commitment to the BRI.

Zafar Jaspal, an international relations expert, anticipates a positive impact on the CPEC as a result of Xi's visit, with potential Saudi investments in Gwadar and various sectors, especially the petrochemical industry.

Dr. Huma Baqai, an international affairs expert, envisions the CPEC as a significant convergence point for the three nations, which could propel Saudi investments in the BRI flagship project.

Javed Hafeez, a former ambassador with extensive Middle East expertise, highlights Saudi Arabia's efforts to diversify its international relations by strengthening ties with a range of global powers, including China, Russia, the US, and Western nations. This proactive diplomacy underscores Riyadh's commitment to broadening its global engagement.