Tuesday, April 2, 2019

Graduate Class: China and the Middle East/Africa - Shanghai University


Spring 2019
Wednesday - 13:05 – 16:45

Instructor: Tugrul Keskin                                     
Office Hours: Tuesday 1:00 – 4:00 PM or by appointment  
E-mail: mailto:tugrulkeskin@t.shu.edu.cn  tugrulk@vt.edu  or WeChat: tugrulkeskin Cell: 86+15000-465734

China will never seek hegemony or expansion – no matter what stage of development it reaches.
China’s socialist democracy best for Chinese people’s interests, no need to copy the political system of other countries. 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China - Xi Jinping

Course Description and Objective:
This course will review and analyze the increased presence of PRC in the Contemporary Middle East and Africa. After the Deng Xiaoping came to power, he liberalized the Chinese state and economy. As a result of his economic policies, the PRC opened its doors to foreign investment and international companies. This trend created a “great transformation in Chinese society.”  Over the next forty years, the Chinese middle class grew to a size of over three hundred fifty million people. David Harvey calls this process “neoliberalism with Chinese characteristics.” However, this economic transformation and the emergence of a large middle class in China created additional energy needs for the state and society. This led to a shift in Chinese foreign policy towards the Middle East. Therefore, over the last few years China, as an emerging global power, has heavily invested in the economies of Middle Eastern countries. However, there are other competitors in the Middle Eastern and African economic market; such as the United States and Europe. Although the Middle East and Africa are considered an American backyard, China is currently trying to enter the Middle Eastern and African market for its own energy and security needs. However, unlike in Africa, China has moved slowly in order not to disturb American National Interests. China is consequently sneaking into the Middle Eastern oil market without too much attention to this trend. In this class, we will review how the growing needs for oil and gas of the Chinese economy has shaped Chinese foreign policy in the Middle East after 1978.


Objectives:
The course objectives are 1) to acquaint students with both traditional and contemporary literature and research on Chinese Foreign Policy toward Middle East and Africa and 2) to introduce students to the historical and ideological basis of Classical and Contemporary Chinese and Middle East/Africa relations

Required Readings:
This course will use sections from the following books and articles:
·       Michael Beckley. China's Century? Why America's Edge Will Endure - MIT. International Security, Vol. 36, No. 3 (Winter 2011/12), pp. 41–78. http://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1162/ISEC_a_00066
·       Tugrul Keskin and Christian Braun. When a Sleeping Giant Wakes – A Neoclassical Realist Analysis of China’s Expanding Ties in the Middle East. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 1-26.
·       Xi Jinping. Secure a Decisive Victory in Building a Moderately Prosperous Society in All Respects and Strive for the Great Success of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era Delivered at the 19th National Congress of the Communist Party of China October 18, 2017. http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/19thcpcnationalcongress/2017-11/04/content_34115212.htm

Recommended Readings:
Other Books:
  • Jon B. Alterman and John W. Garver. The Vital Triangle: China, The United States and the Middle East. CSIS, 2008.
  • Scott Harold and Alireza Nader. China and Iran E conomic, Political, and Military Relations. RAND, 2012.
  • James Chen. The Emergence of China in the Middle East. Strategic Forum National Defense University, 2011: SF No. 271 1.
  • Kemp, Geoffrey. The East Moves West: India, China and Asia’s Growing Presence in the Middle East. Washington: Brookings, 2012.
  • Simpfendorfer, Ben. The New Silk Road: How a Rising Arab World is Turning Away from the West and Rediscovering China. New York: Palgrave Macmillan, 2011.
  • MacFarquhar R. The Politics of China: The Eras of Mao and Deng. Cambridge : Cambridge University Press; 1997.
 Recommended Articles:
·      YORAM EVRON. Israel’s Response to China’s Rise A Dependent State’s Dilemma. Asian Survey, Vol. 56, Number 2, pp. 392–414. ISSN 0004-4687, electronic ISSN 1533-838X. © 2016.
·      Yiyi Chen. China’s Relationship with Israel, Opportunities and Challenges: Perspectives from China. Israel Studies, volume 17 number 3.
·      Aron Shai. China and Israel Relations and Future Prospects. ASPJ Africa & Francophonie - 2nd Quarter 2014.
·      Sino-Turkish Strategic Economic Relationship in New Era by Zhiqiang Zou.
·      “Turkey Dream” and the China-Turkish Cooperation under “One Belt and One Road” Initiative by ZAN Tao.
·  Altay Atli. Turkey’s Foreign Policy Toward China: Analysis and Recommendations for Improvement. Global Relations Forum Young Academics Program Policy Paper Series No.3. http://www.gif.org.tr/Documents/YAc%20Makaleleri/turkeys-foreign-policy-towards-china-analysis-and-recommendations-for-improvement-dr-altay-atli.pdf 
·       Antonov, Ivan. "China's Growing Role In International Affairs." International Affairs: A Russian Journal Of World Politics, Diplomacy & International Relations 57.4 (2011): 27-31.
·       Jin Liangxiang. Energy First China and the Middle East. Middle East Quarterly Spring 2005, pp. 3-10.
·       Huiyun, Tang. "China's Soft Power Construction Policy." Journal Of US-China Public Administration 9.5 (2012): 563-569.
·       Pantucci, Raffaello, and Alexandros Petersen. "China's Inadvertent Empire." National Interest 122 (2012): 30-39.
·       Rozman, Gilbert. "Invocations Of Chinese Traditions In International Relations." Journal Of Chinese Political Science 17.2 (2012): 111-124.
·       Xiao, Ren, and Gordon Cheung. "Sources And Transitions Of Chinese Foreign Policy: An Introduction." East Asia: An International Quarterly 28.3 (2011): 169-174.
·       Demır, İdris. "Revival Of The Silk Road In Terms Of Energy Trade." University Of Gaziantep Journal Of Social Sciences 9.3 (2010): 513-532.
·       Gee, John. "China's Challenges In The Middle East." Washington Report On Middle East Affairs 30.8 (2011): 30-31.
·       Menon, Raja. "The East Moves West, India, China, And Asia's Growing Presence In The Middle East." Maritime Affairs: Journal Of The National Maritime Foundation Of India 7.1 (2011): 121-128.
·       Peerenboom, Randall. "China And The Revolutions In The Middle East And North Africa." Middle Eastern Law & Governance 3.1/2 (2011): 192-203.
·       Pham, J. Peter. "China's “Surge” In The Middle East And Its Implications For U.S. Interests." American Foreign Policy Interests 31.3 (2009): 177-193.
·       Zambelis, Chris, and Brandon Gentry. "China Through Arab Eyes: American Influence In The Middle East." Parameters: U.S. Army War College 38.1 (2008): 60-72.
·       Harris, Stuart. "Global And Regional Orders And The Changing Geopolitics Of Energy." Australian Journal Of International Affairs 64.2 (2010): 166-185.
·       Hayoun, Massoud. "Strange Bedfellows." World Affairs 175.5 (2013): 89-96.
·       Olimat, Muhamad. "The Political Economy Of The Sino-Middle Eastern Relations." Journal Of Chinese Political Science 15.3 (2010): 307-335.
·       Gvosdev, Nikolas. "Don't Count China Out In Middle East." World Politics Review (2012): 1.
·       Gardels, Nathan. "It's Time For China To Start Shaping The New Global System." NPQ: New Perspectives Quarterly 28.3 (2011): 2-5.
·       Hulbert, Matthew. "Shifting Global Balance Heralds New Energy Imperatives." Middle East 438 (2012): 32-36.
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currie) Editors, China’s Energy Relations with the Developing World (London and New York: Continuum publishers, 2011).
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currier) “Lubricated With Oil: Iran-China Relations in a Changing World.”, Middle East Policy. Vol. 15, No. 2, (Summer, 2008):  66-80.
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currier) “Recasting the Silk Road in a New Era: China’s Expanding Influence in the Middle East” In Emilian Kavalski editor, China and the Global Politics of Regionalization (New York and London: Ashgate Publishers, 2009):165-176.
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currier) “In Arms We Trust: Strategic and Economic Factors Motivating China-Iran Relations.  The Chinese Journal of Political Science. Vol. 15, No. 1, (Spring, 2010): 49-69.
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currier) China’s Quest for Energy Security in the Middle East: Strategic Implications” In C. Currier & M. Dorraj editors, China’s Energy Relations with the Developing World (London and New York: Continuum Publishers, , 2011): 65-82.
  • (C. Currier & M. Dorraj) “The Strategic Implications of China’s Energy Engagement With the Developing World” In C. Currier & M. Dorraj, editors, China’s Energy Relations With the Developing World (London and New York: Continuum Publishers, , 2011): 3-16.
  • (M. Dorraj & J. English) “China’s Strategy for Energy Acquisition in the Middle East: Potential for Conflict and Cooperation with the United States” Asian Politics and Policy Volume 14, Number 1. (April, 2012): 173-191.
  • (M. Dorraj & J. English) “The Dragon Nests: China’s Energy Engagement of the Middle East” China Report, Volume 49, Number 43, (June, 2013): 43-67. 
  • (M. Dorraj & J. English) “Iran- China Relations and the Changing Political Map” In Thomas Juneau and Sam Razavi editors, Iran’s Foreign Policy Since 2001: Alone in the World (London & New York: Routledge, 2013): 179-195.
  • “Iran’s Expanding Relations with China and Their Strategic Dimensions” The Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research, Occasional Papers, Number 112, (Fall, 2013): 1-52. (With simultaneous publication of Arabic Translation).
  • (M. Dorraj & C. Currier) China: La Busqueda De La Seguridad  Energetica En El Mundo En  Desarrollo “China’s Search for Energy Security in the Developing World” (in Spanish) in Alejandro Chanona Editor, Confrontando Modelos de Sequridad Energetica (Mexico City:  National Autonomous University of Mexico, 2013): 143- 162.
  • “Implications for Asia- Pacific/GCC Energy Relations” in Emirates Center for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), Unconventional Fuels: The Next Hydrocarbon Revolution? (Abu Dhabi: ECSSR, Spring, 2015): 239-272.
  • “The Future of Sino-Iran Relations” in Niv Horesh Editor, Toward Well-Oiled Relations? China’s Presence in the Middle East Following the Arab Spring. (London and New York: MacMillan Publishers, 2015): 193-203.
·       Yitzhak Shichor, Co-Editor with Jonathan Goldstein, China and Israel from Discord to Concord (Jerusalem: The Magnes Press, 2016), 306p., in Hebrew.
·      Yitzhak Shichor. Ethno-Diplomacy: the Uyghur Hitch in Sino-Turkish Relations, Policy Studies No. 53 (Washington: East West Center, 2009). Translated into Chinese as Minzu waijiao: zhongtu guanxi zhongde weiwuer zhang'ai, and reprinted in: http://uighurbiz.net/bbs/viewthread.php?tid=232219&extra=&page=1
·      Yitzhak Shichor. China and the Palestine Liberation Organization: Ups and Downs, Policy          Publication No. 42 (Jerusalem: The Leonard Davis Institute for International Relations, the Hebrew University, 1991), in Hebrew.
·      Yitzhak Shichor. A Multiple Hit: China’s Missiles Sale to Saudi Arabia, SCPS Papers, No. 5 (Kaohsiung: Sun Yat-sen Center for Policy Studies, National Sun Yat-sen University, 1991).
·      Yitzhak Shichor. East Wind Over Arabia: Origins and Implications of the Sino-Saudi Missile Deal, China Research Monographs No. 35 (Center for Chinese Studies, Institute of East Asian Studies, University of California, Berkeley, 1989).
·      Yitzhak Shichor. Small Cracks in the Great Wall: The Prospects of Sino-Israeli Relations, Research Report No. 5 (London: Institute of Jewish Affairs, 1987). 
·      Yitzhak Shichor.The Middle East in China’s Foreign Policy 1949-1977 (London and New York: Cambridge University Press, 1979). Reprinted 1981, digitally printed version, 2008.
·      Degang Sun & Yahia H. Zoubir. China's Economic Diplomacy towards the Arab Countries: challenges ahead? Journal of Contemporary China, 2015 Vol. 24, No. 95, 903–921,
·      YAO Kuangyi1. China-Arab States Cooperation Forum in the Last Decade. Journal of Middle Eastern and Islamic Studies (in Asia) Vol. 8, No. 4, 2014.
·      Guy Burton. Explaining Beijing’s Shift from Active to Passive Engagement in Relation to the Arab-Israeli Conflict. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 93-112.
·      China in the Eyes of the Saudi Media Mohammed Turki Al-Sudairi Gulf Research Center GULF PAPERS February 2013.
·      Degang Sun a & Yahia Zoubir. China's Response to the Revolts in the Arab World: A Case of Pragmatic Diplomacy. Mediterranean Politics, 2013.
·      John W. Garver. China and Iran: An Emerging Partnership Post- Sanctions. MEI Policy Focus 2016-3.
·      Mohiaddin Mesbahi and Mohammad Homayounvash. China and the International Non-Proliferation Regime: The Case of Iran. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 73-92.
·      China and Iran: Economic, political, and Military relations
Scott Harold and Alireza Nader. RAND, 2012.
·       

BLOGS
·      “The Role of China’s Policy Banks in its Energy Acquisition Strategy in the Developing Nations” Wong Center for the Study of Multinational Corporations, Shanghai, China, January 23, 2105.
·      “China Looks to Deepen Relations with West Asia” Wong Center for the Study of Multinational Corporations, Shanghai, China, March 20, 2105.
·      “The Return of the Middle East to its Asian Home:  Expanding Middle East- Asia Nexus and its Ramifications” Part1. Wong Center for the Study of Multinational Corporations, Shanghai, China, July 20, 2105.
·      “China’s Evolving Policy Toward the Palestinian-Israeli Conflict”  China Policy Institute, University of Nottingham, UK, March 25, 2015. Blogs.Nottingham.AC.UK.
·      “Future of China-Iran-Europe Energy and Trade After the Nuclear Deal”
China.Org.CN. Thursday, September 10, 2015. http://www.China.org.cn/opinion/2015-09/10/content36552021.htm
·      China in Middle East: Shifting Role and Interests By PAN Guang.
·      Sean Foley. Seek Knowledge Even If It Takes You to China (Via Washington) Saudi Arabia and China in the Twenty-First Century. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 166-188.
·      Geoffrey F. Gresh. The Gulf Looks East Sino-Arab Relations in an Age of Instability. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 149-165.
·      Manochehr Dorraj and James English. The Dragon Nests: China’s Energy Engagement of the Middle East. CHINA REPORT 49: 1 (2013): 43–67.

Newspaper Articles:
  • Davis, Rowenna. "China Is Now Challenging The U.S. In The Middle East.." CCPA Monitor 16.3 (2009): 10-11.
  • Ford, Peter. "Libya unrest tests China's interests in the Middle East." Christian Science Monitor 02 Mar. 2011: N.PAG.
  • Spegele, Brian, and Matt Bradley. "Egypt's Morsi Firms Up Ties to China." Wall Street Journal - Eastern Edition 29 Aug. 2012:
  • Topol, Sarah A., and Peter Ford. "Q&A: Why China has become the Middle East's favorite customer." Christian Science Monitor 13 July 2010: N.PAG.
  • Ian Bremmer. China's fast-growing Middle East problem. The Economist. Tuesday, March 13, 2012
  • Brian Spegele And Jeremy Page. China to Shake Up Foreign-Policy Leadership. The Wall Street Journal. March 10, 2013. http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324096404578352110008959792.html  
·       Willy Lam. Meet China’s New Foreign-Policy Team Is Beijing using its latest appointments to send a message to Washington? Foreign Policy. March 8, 2013. http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2013/03/08/meet_china_s_new_foreign_policy_team
·       China's Foreign Policy: http://english.people.com.cn/china/19990914A128.html
·       Tania Branigan. China's foreign policy is playing catch-up with its new status.     The Guardian, Thursday 22 March 2012. http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2012/mar/22/china-foreign-policy-catchup-status
·       Council On Foreign Relations: http://www.cfr.org/region/china/ri271    

Documentaries and Movies:   
·       Full Video: Xi Jinping addresses the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl_azPa6VKE
·       China's Role in the Middle East: Pan Guang
·       Western Approaches: Responses to China from the Middle East and Central Asia.
·       Roberts: USA vs China in the Middle East
·       China's role in the Middle East
·       Journeys Into Islamic China - Huda Documentary
·       China and the Middle East: Rising Power and a Region in Turmoil https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4TYVoYXvwI
·       The Heat discusses China-Middle East relations
·      China-Arab Forum: How is China facing a multi-polar Arab world?

Recommended Websites and Embassies:
·       Principles of China's Foreign Policy
·       http://tr.chineseembassy.org/eng/ Chinese Embassy in Turkey
·       http://eg.china-embassy.org/ Chinese Embassy in Egypt
·       http://ir.chineseembassy.org/ Chinese Embassy in Iran
·       http://www.chinaembassy.org.sa/ Chinese Embassy in Saudi Arabia
·       http://qa.china-embassy.org/eng/ Chinese Embassy in Qatar
·       http://za.china-embassy.org/eng/ Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of South Africa
·       http://ng.china-embassy.org/eng/ Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Federal Republic of Nigeria
·       http://zw.china-embassy.org/eng/ Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Republic of Zimbabwe
·       http://et.china-embassy.org/eng/ Embassy of The People's Republic of China In The Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia

Course Philosophy:
The goal of this course is to enable students to write a theoretically guided and empirically rooted research paper. I expect you to become familiar with the social, political and economic underpinnings of transformations in the Modern China and the Middle East and Africa.

The success of this course depends on your continued and sustained reading and participation. The course will be based on a four-dimensional method of learning, and this includes inquiry and critical thinking; communication; the diversity of human experience; and ethics and social responsibility. First, I would like you to critically analyze what you learn in this class or have learned so far through the media and education, because in today’s world, truth is a relative concept. Throughout human history, critical thinking is the one of the most important factors that has contributed to human development.  In order to become active, self-motivated, empowered learners and future leaders, you will need to have the ability to think critically, and therefore your criticism, feedback and suggestions are necessary. Second, I would like you to enhance your writing and oral communication skills in this course. Therefore, it is important to clearly elaborate your arguments in the class discussion as well as in the written assignments.

Third, we are each part of the human mosaic, and all have different experiences based on our social, political and economic differences. We can all learn from and respect each other and benefit from our diversity. Please try to learn from and understand those with different perspectives than you. Lastly, we need to learn that we are all part of this intellectual community and larger society, and all have social and ethical responsibilities to our family, community, classmates, and humanity. We live in a globalized world and therefore, we need to be aware of events in our community, and the world today. In order to enhance our knowledge, we must critically examine our social, political and economic environment in order to apply this knowledge to our experience.

Course Requirements


To prevent confusion later, please read the following information:

Grades: Your grade for this course will be based on your performance on the following components, shown below with their dates and respective weights.

Item                                                                                                    Weight (%)

Quizzes (4)                                                                                                     40.0
Class Presentation                                                                                           10.0
Final Paper                                                                                                      30.0
Class Participation/Attendance                                                                      10.0
Newspaper Articles                                                                                        10.0

Quizzes: You will have 4 quizzes. The quizzes will have 20 questions from each week’s class readings and discussions. Each Quiz is worth 10 points and each question is worth 0.5 point. You will find the schedule of quizzes below. Please carefully review the quiz schedule. If you have schedule conflict, drop the class. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.      

Class Presentation: Each week, one or two students will be assigned a weekly topic from the readings. These students will summarize the readings and prepare a content outline and 4-6 questions for the class, in order to come prepared to lead the class discussion for 15 minutes. Each student must always read the course materials before they attend class, and I expect you to participate actively in the class discussion. I strongly recommend that you present in earlier weeks rather than later in the semester, because you may not find the right time available to present, and will lose presentation points. Presentation dates are available on a first-come first-served basis. The timeline for weekly presentations will be provided in the first week of class. After we have filled in student names and finalized the weekly presentation schedule, it will be sent it to the students. 

Final Paper and Analytical Paper: Please understand that this requirement involves a two-step process. You will select a global issue and write a critical analysis about this issue related with China and the Middle East. It should be at least 4000 words and you must provide a word count at the end of your paper. Everyone will select a different topic. Your selection must be approved and registered by me; therefore, you must contact me directly regarding your topic selection. The deadline for selecting/registering your topic is Sunday, the 5th week of the class. The Final Paper is due on Sunday June 9th, the last week of school. Late submissions will not be accepted.

  1. Analytical Paper: In the first part of this assignment, you will select a topic related with China and the Middle East and Africa. You will write a proposal/abstract (at least 500 words) for your research, describing the contents of your paper and sources (books, articles and newspaper articles – this should include at least 10 different sources) and will send it to me by email on Sunday, the 5th week of the course. You need to email me your analytical paper and it should be in MS Word Document. In this step of your assignment, you need to demonstrate a clear focus (time and geography – very specific) and a CLEAR RESEARCH QUESTION! If you are late, you lose 5 points. DO NOT FORGET, YOUR PROPOSAL MUST BE APPROVED BY THE INSTRUCTOR BY APRIL 26TH MIDNIGHT; THEREFORE, DO NOT EXPECT FROM ME TO APPROVE YOUR PROPOSAL AT 11 PM NIGHT! You need to email your proposal or come and talk to me before you submit! 10 POINTS

  1. Final Paper: In the second part of your assignment, after I have accepted your proposal, you will start writing your paper based on the described contents, references and research question you provided in the analytical paper. You will submit your final paper by email on Friday, the last week of the semester. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate contact me directly! Your final paper should be at least 4000 words in length, excluding bibliography and references. If you are late, you lose 10 points. 20 POINTS             

Attendance: Regular attendance is one of the most important parameters to successful completion of the course requirements. If you miss more than 4 classes, you will not receive an attendance grade.  Excuses will not be permitted for any reason.

Class Participation: Each student must read the course materials before they attend class and I expect them to participate in class discussion. Class participation in the form of informed questions and comments will be taken into consideration when determining your final grade. Additionally, the class participation grade also depends on class attendance.

Newspaper Articles: During the semester, you can bring 10 newspaper articles related with our class subjects. You cannot bring more than one article in the same week. You will have to summarize these articles in class and will find the recommended newspapers listed on http://internationalstudiesandsociology.blogspot.it/, under the external links section. Newspaper articles sent by email will not be accepted. Please bring it to class, the first page of the printed/hard copy of the article. You can only bring an article from the selected newspapers, posted on http://internationalstudiesandsociology.blogspot and you will find them under links section. Some of the recommended newspapers are The Guardian, Al-Jazeera, Democracynow.org, Financial Times, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Pravda, Haaretz, China Daily, and the Economist.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!
Coming late to class: Late comers will not be accepted to class, so be on time. If you are late for a class, please do not disturb your classmates and me and do not come at all. Please also do not send an email or call me regarding your class attendance. If there is a medical need, bring an official letter from a doctor. Whatever the reason is, if you cannot come to class, this is your responsibility. If you miss more than 4 classes, you will not receive an attendance grade.

PLEASE READ CAREFULLY!    
Laptop and cell phone policy: No laptops or cell phones will be allowed in this class. Please turn your cell phone off before you come to class. If you use the Internet/laptop or your cell phone during class, you will be asked to leave.

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING ARTICLES:
  • Why a leading professor of new media just banned technology use in class
  • Why you should take notes by hand — not on a laptop
  • To Remember a Lecture Better, Take Notes by Hand

Responsibility: You and/or your parents pay tuition for this class; therefore, you have responsibility to yourself and/or your parents. Passing or failing the class is not the main objective, rather that you learn and improve your knowledge. Please read and try to understand the main concepts of this class. If you are having difficulty, please do not hesitate to see me and discuss your concerns!

Each year, millions of people graduate from Chinese, American or global universities (see http://collegecompletion.chronicle.com/). As you will see from the statistics, the job market is very competitive; therefore, students need to improve their knowledge, skill, and experience in order to find a job they want. Learning is a lifelong process. An academic institution like Shanghai University will provide you with an educational discipline and methodology; everything else is up to you. You should study and improve your skills, in order to compete with the rest of the graduates. While you are in the program, you should apply for internships to obtain relevant experiences before you graduate. Therefore, if you need a letter of recommendation for an internship or job, please do not hesitate to ask me, if you receive at least an A, A- or B+ grade from my class. Please also remember that an undergraduate degree might not be enough to find the job you want; therefore, you might need to apply to graduate school. In order to apply to graduate school, you will also need to have a letter of recommendation. I am also happy to advise you on graduate school or provide a letter of recommendation if you receive an A, A- or B+ grade. 


No Laptops and cell phones will be allowed in this class.

Course Schedule


First Week
March 25-29

·       Overview of the syllabus

Yitzhak Shichor. The Middle East in China's Foreign Policy, 1949-1977
·       Introduction 1
·       1 China's encounter with the Middle East 9

Documentaries:
·       China looks to bolster its Middle East reach - Inside Story
·       Rising superpower: Why are Middle Eastern leaders coming to China? CGTN


Second Week
April 1-5

Yitzhak Shichor. The Middle East in China's Foreign Policy, 1949-1977
·       2 Sino-Arab peaceful co-existence 37
·       3 The struggle against imperialism 70

·       Keskin Tugrul and Christian Braun. When a Sleeping Giant Wakes – A Neoclassical Realist Analysis of China’s Expanding Ties in the Middle East. Sociology of Islam 4 (2016) 1-26.
·       Michael Beckley. China's Century? Why America's Edge Will Endure - MIT. International Security, Vol. 36, No. 3 (Winter 2011/12), pp. 41–78. http://www.mitpressjournals.org/doi/pdf/10.1162/ISEC_a_00066

Documentaries:
·       Full Video: Xi Jinping addresses the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gl_azPa6VKE
·       Jerusalem Studio: China's interests in the Middle East
·       China's Role in the Middle East: Pan Guang


Third Week
April 8-12


Yitzhak Shichor. The Middle East in China's Foreign Policy, 1949-1977
·       4 The struggle against imperialism and revisionism 106
·       5 The struggle against social imperialism 145
·       Conclusion 189

·       Lillian Craig Harris. China's Relations with the PLO. Journal of Palestine Studies, Vol. 7, No. 1 (Autumn, 1977), pp. 123-154.
·       Chaoling Feng. Embracing Interdependence: The Dynamics of China and the Middle East. Brookings Doha Center. Policy Briefing April 2015.
·       Stig Stenslie. China debates its future role in the Middle East. Noref expert Analysis – May 2014.

Documentaries:
·       Western Approaches: Responses to China from the Middle East and Central Asia.
·       Roberts: USA vs China in the Middle East


Fourth Week
April 15-19


QUIZ – 1

ISRAEL
·       Chaziza, M. (2017). Israel–China Relations Enter a New Stage: Limited Strategic Hedging. Contemporary Review of the Middle East, 5(1), 30–45.
·       Yoram Evron. China’s diplomatic initiatives in the Middle East: the quest for a great-power role in the region. International Relations 2017, Vol. 31(2) 125–144.
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/0047117815619664

TURKEY
·       Political Conflict to Economic Cooperation: Sino-Turkish Relations in the Context of New Era. Michael McCall and Tugrul Keskin

Documentaries:
·       Talk to Al Jazeera - Zhang Weiwei: The China Wave https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JvhBUowHLiU
·       China and the Middle East: Rising Power and a Region in Turmoil https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4TYVoYXvwI
·       The Heat discusses China-Middle East relations - CGTN
·       Israeli PM Netanyahu meets Pres. Xi on 25th anniversary of China-Israel ties - CGTN
·       Turkey and China: Partners against terror? - CCTV  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nMQLTKLpXtE
·       Exclusive interview with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan – CGTN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k90KRQ1d6og


Fifth Week
April 22-26


IRAN
·       Iran and the Belt and Road Initiative: Amid Hope and Fear. Mohsen Shariatinia and Hamidreza Azizi. JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY CHINA, 2019. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/10670564.2019.1594108

ARAB WORLD
·       The Chinese Breakthrough in the Arab and Mediterranean Markets. Bichara Khader. 2018.
·       CHINA’S RELATIONS WITH AFRICA AND THE ARAB WORLD: SHARED TRENDS, DIFFERENT PRIORITIES. LINA BENABDALLAH.

NORTH AFRICA
·       Muhamad S. Olimat. China and North Africa since World War II: A Bilateral Approach
Chapter One: China and North Africa: An Overview.

GCC
·       Treading with Caution: China's Multidimensional Interventions in the Gulf Region. Imad Mansour. The China Quarterly, 2019. https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/china-quarterly/article/treading-with-caution-chinas-multidimensional-interventions-in-the-gulf-region/C232CB6818AC3458CB072609CB67C773

Documentaries:
·       The Debate - Iran-China ties – Press TV https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCdDUqPny5c
·       Discussion: China-Iran ties – CGTN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X9eRx8Z0pFE
·       IISS - Mahmood Abdulla: The Past, Present, and Future for GCC Investment in China https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A6P6o9jnrl8
IISS - A New Era of GCC Geo-Economic Opportunity with China and India
·       Egypt: Made in China - Al Jazeera World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sEZg3puVNcg

Analytical Paper: In the first part of this assignment, you will select a topic related with China and the Middle East. You will write a proposal/abstract (at least 500 words) for your research, describing the contents of your paper and sources (books, articles and newspaper articles – this should include at least 10 different sources) and will send it to me by email on Sunday, the 5th week of the course. You need to email me your analytical paper and it should be in MS Word Document. In this step of your assignment, you need to demonstrate a clear focus (time and geography – very specific) and a CLEAR RESEARCH QUESTION! If you are late, you lose 5 points. DO NOT FORGET, YOUR PROPOSAL MUST BE APPROVED BY THE INSTRUCTOR BY APRIL 26TH MIDNIGHT; THEREFORE, DO NOT EXPECT FROM ME TO APPROVE YOUR PROPOSAL AT 11 PM NIGHT! You need to email your proposal or come and talk to me before you submit! 10 POINTS


Sixth Week
April 29 – May 3


QUIZ – 2

·       Adie, W. A. C. (1964). Chou En-lai on Safari. The China Quarterly, 18, 174.
·       Sino‐African Relations: A Review and Reconciliation of Dominant Schools of Thought. Simplice A. Asongu. Politics and Poilicy, 2016.
·       Origin, Achievements, and Prospects of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation. Zeng Aiping & Shu Zhan. China International Studies, 2018.  https://www.focac.org/eng/lhyj_1/yjcg/P020181026382446204313.pdf
·       Li Anshan, Liu Haifang, Pan Huaqiong, Zeng Aiping and He Wenping, “FOCAC Twelve Years Later: Achievements, Challenges and the Way Forward.” Peking University Discussion Paper 74 (2012). Direct link: http://f.hypotheses.org/wp- content/blogs.dir/698/files/2012/07/FOCAC-10-ans3.pdf

Documentaries:
·       President Xi Jinping addresses opening ceremony of FOCAC summit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o-_HtH3QOTw
·       Trade Winds between China and Africa (Episode I) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k42eqzZWg5A
·       Does Africa benefit from its relations with China? | Inside Story https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ttdacYZ3xM0 
·       What Africans Think Of China Colonizing Africa? https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=01kZPU65Wnk


Seventh Week
May 6 - 10


·       Eleanor Albert, “China in Africa,” Council on Foreign Relations (12 July 2017). Direct link: https://www.cfr.org/backgrounder/china-africa
·       Government of China white paper, “China’s Second Africa Policy Paper,” December 2015. Direct link: http://news.xinhuanet.com/english/2015-12/04/c_134886545.htm
·       President Xi Jinping, “Text of Speech at 6th FOCAC Summit on 5 December 2015.” Direct link: http://english.cri.cn/12394/2015/12/05/4083s906994.htm

Documentaries:
·       Trade Winds between China and Africa (Episode II) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9A9HEVkXoJ4
·       Chinese in Zambia - Straight through Africa

Eighth Week
May 13 - 17


QUIZ – 3

·       Xiang, Z. (2008). From Sino—African Relations Comes a Steady Stream of Enlightening Guidance. Contemporary Chinese Thought, 40(1), 11–28. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.2753/CSP1097-1467400101?journalCode=mcsp20
·       China, Africa's New Colonial Master? Emmanuel Igbinoba. Global Journal of Management and Business Research: Economics and Commerce: Volume 16 Issue 5. Year 2016. http://www0.sun.ac.za/ccs/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/6-China-Africas-New-Colonial-1.pdf
·       China’s Relations with Sub-Saharan Africa. Anna Katharina Stahl. Roma, IAI, settembre 2016. https://www.iai.it/sites/default/files/iaiwp1622.pdf

Documentaries:
·       A NEW ERA OF CHINAAFRICA COOPERATION Episode 3Integrated Interests |CCTV English
·       Closing the Gap China-Africa ties: The human stories behind the ‘China phenomenon’ in Africa


Ninth Week
May 20 - 24


·       Getahun Zewde, “Post 2006 Ethio-China Trade Relations: Challenges and Prospects,” Asian Research Journal of Arts and Social Sciences (2017). Direct link: http://www.journalrepository.org/media/journals/ARJASS_45/2017/May/Zewde322017ARJASS 33141.pdf
·       Xiaofang Shen, “Private Chinese Investment in Africa: Myths and Realities,” World Bank Policy Research Working Paper 6311 (January 2013). Direct link: https://openknowledge.worldbank.org/bitstream/handle/10986/12174/wps6311.pdf?sequence=1

Documentaries:
·       A NEW ERA OF CHINAAFRICA COOPERATION Episode 4Connecting People|CCTV English
·       China's Footprint in Africa
·       Faces Of Africa - When Chinese Meet Zambians https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_UhlZgBo8E


Tenth Week
May 27 - 31


QUIZ – 4

·       China's Expanding African Relations Implications for U.S. National Security. Lloyd Thrall. RAND, 2015.
Government of China white paper, “China’s Foreign Aid,” State Council (July 2014). Direct link: http://english.gov.cn/archive/white_paper/2014/08/23/content_281474982986592.htm

Documentaries:
·       Roundtable: China-Africa relations - who benefits? TRT World https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J6LnZs9x-Kc
·       How is Africa positioned in China’s global strategy? CTGN https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DeypBc94Un8



FINAL PAPER
Sunday June 9, 2019
Midnight