It is no secret that China is expanding its influence around the world, including in Africa and the Middle East. And with China’s recent Belt and Road Initiative, the focus on strengthening ties between Asia’s largest economy and smaller, resource-rich countries around the globe is also growing.
In this vein, Oman’s National Records and Archives Authority, the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, and the Research Center for Islamic History, Arts and Culture at the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation have hosted a two-day conference highlighting the historical ties between China and the Middle East.
Academics from five different countries discussed a diverse range of topics including history, literature, art, science, politics, and economics.
As highlighted in his opening remarks by Omani National Records and Archives Authority chairman Hamad bin Mohammad Al Dhawyani, trade, especially by sea, has always been a cornerstone of China’s relationship with Oman and the wider Middle East.
