Sino-Us Competitive Cooperation Relationship: AIIB’S Projects in the Middle East and Practical Application of SDGs
Authors: Di Miao , Huda Mohd Ikbal Mohd 
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This essay examines the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in the Middle East, with a focus on infrastructure development facilitated through the AIIB and DFC. It explores the strategic roles, operational approaches, and impacts of these institutions on Middle Eastern development, highlighting the geopolitical implications of Sino-US rivalry in the region and the distinct paths taken by both nations. Furthermore, the essay evaluates the broader implications of Sino-US hegemonic competition, employing Realism and Neo-Realism theories as analytical frameworks to dissect this complex relationship. The essay also delves into the relationship between AIIB and DFC investments in the Middle East and their alignment with the United Nations SDGs. Particular attention is given to how these investments influence the achievement of SDGs in the Middle East, contributing to sustainable development in the region. The methodology adopted is qualitative in nature, involving interviews with experts specializing in Middle Eastern investment and SDGs development to gather and analyse relevant data. The research findings address critical issues such as development goals, geopolitical dynamics, and the future prospects for Africa and the Middle East. This article provides valuable insights into the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in both regions, demonstrating how their investments contribute to achieving development objectives and advancing SDGs. For instance, the AIIB’s investment in solar energy initiatives, such as the Benban Solar Park in Egypt, the project can help Egypt’s city build a sustainable development environment, and make people and some other lives live in a safe environment, help the Middle East achieve No.11 SDGs.

Objective: This article aims to analyze the contributions of the AIIB and DFC to infrastructure development in the Middle East. It seeks to explore the strategic roles played by these institutions in advancing the competitive positions of the United States and China within the global market. Furthermore, the study examines the broader geopolitical implications of the Sino-US competitive cooperation relationship in the Middle East, focusing on how the activities of the AIIB and DFC both reflect and influence the geopolitical dynamics between these two global powers. Lastly, the article investigates the role of AIIB and DFC investments in supporting the Middle East’s progress toward achieving the SDGs.

Theoretical Framework: This chapter presents the fundamental concepts and theoretical frameworks underpinning the research, with a particular focus on Realism and Neo-Realism. These theories provide a robust foundation for understanding the context and background of the study.

Method: This research adopted a qualitative approach to gather and analyze data. The qualitative methodology is utilized to explore the opinions, experiences, and perspectives of participants. Data collection will be conducted through interviews, either online or in person. Additionally, a focus group will be selected to facilitate the comparison of various research components, identify relationships among these elements, and examine how they influence one another within the study.

Results and Discussion: The findings highlight the significant contributions of both institutions to the development of the Middle East, as well as the intricate processes shaping their interactions and influence in the region. Additionally, the analysis underscores the competitive dynamics between the United States and China in Africa’s infrastructure development. The discussion is organized into distinct sections to examine the impact of these institutions on the Middle East and to analyze the Sino-US competition across different time periods.

Research Implications: This article examines the practical and theoretical implications of its findings, offering insights into their potential application and influence within the field of Sino-US competitive cooperation relations. It also explores how AIIB and DFC investments can contribute to the Middle East’s progress toward achieving the SDGs. These implications extend to various dimensions, including the evolution of Sino-US relations, the Middle East’s development trajectory, and broader geopolitical dynamics.

Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing body of literature by analyzing the role of AIIB and DFC investments in advancing the Middle East’s progress toward SDGs while identifying a pathway for Sino-US competitive cooperation. The significance and value of this research lie in its examination of how these investments shape the Middle East’s SDG development and influence the evolution of Sino-US relation.