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Gulf pact in Mecca seen as opening for Beijing’s deeper role

The new mutual defense arrangement could also pressure countries such as India to reconsider their own security partnerships.

Reported · Written up by our desk · Trade & Tariffs

A security pact signed this week in Mecca by Gulf countries declares that an armed attack on one member will be treated as an attack on all three, drawing comparisons to NATO’s Article 5.

According to analysts cited by SCMP Economy, the agreement reflects a perception that the long standing US security bargain with Gulf states is fraying, an environment that could give Beijing room to expand its presence in the region.

The outlet says the US has historically relied on Gulf access for energy and influence, while Gulf states depended on a Washington defensive shield, and the shift could complicate other countries’ strategic choices.

SCMP Economy adds that the pact may prompt countries such as India to reassess their own security partnerships, given the emergence of independent alliances among middle powers.

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