China vs. IMEC: the Minilateral Movement in the Middle East

In this episode, China vs the IMEC Corridor in the Middle East, Dr. Jean-Loup Samaan from the Middle East Institute of the National University of Singapore joins to discuss minilateral initiatives' impacts in the region. Explore the ongoing significance of the International Maritime Exercise (IMEC), Israel's post-Gaza war role, and complexities of regional dynamics. Unpack France's strategic trilateral partnership with the UAE and India to navigate tensions with China. Join us for a deep dive into these shifts, evaluating their implications on alliances and power balance in the Middle East on China-Mena.Takeaways:International Maritime Exercise Initiative (IMEC) and Geopolitical ContextFrance's Strategic Involvement in IMECUncertainties Surrounding IMECQuotes"The benefit of mini laterals is creating new discussion mechanisms among countries, crucial in regions like the Middle East lacking strong security frameworks."-Jean-Loup Samaan“The introduction of new methods brings hope and progress in the absence of a strong security structure.."-Jean-Loup SamaanFeatured in the EpisodeDr. Jean-Loup SamaanLinkedin: https://sg.linkedin.com/in/jean-loup-samaan-512a782Website: https://www.atlanticcouncil.org/expert/jean-loup-samaan/Jonathan FultonNonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Associate Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabihttps://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfultonChapters00:00 - Introduction00:23 - Exploring Middle East Mini Laterals05:41 - Analyzing the US-led I2U2 Initiative06:58 - Middle Eastern Caution Towards a New Quad11:28 - Research Challenges in a Changing Middle East15:04 - Jordan's Vital Role in Regional Stability18:37 - Unpacking China's Regional Influence23:35 - Shifting Foreign Policies Amid US-China Competition26:31 - Innovations in Security via Mini Laterals30:08 - Insights on Middle Eastern Politics and China's Responses35:28 - UAE and India: Infrastructural Investments and Rebranding38:27 - Issues with IMEC Format and Financing Concerns40:24 - Uncertainties Surrounding Israel's Role43:12 - Outro