China's Economic Power Grows in the Mediterranean, but Political Influence Remains Limited

China's economic interests in the eastern Mediterranean region are significant, but Beijing's political influence remains minimal, according to Plamen Tonchev of the Institute for International Economic Relations in Greece. Tonchev describes China as 'an increasingly important player' in the strategically vital eastern Mediterranean, where trade deficits with China are a common trend among regional countries.

Chinese investments in Egypt exceed $7 billion, with projects including a wind farm in the Gulf of Suez and an ammonia export facility. Turkey has also attracted $9 billion in Chinese investments, particularly in infrastructure and electric vehicle production. However, political tensions persist, especially regarding China's stance on Hamas and concerns over Chinese technology in Israel.

Despite its economic footprint, China remains cautious in regional conflicts, focusing instead on stability and trade routes like the Middle Corridor, bypassing Russia.