China and the Iranian Nuclear Issue—Converting Challenges into Opportunities

Abstract

After 13 years of intense and grueling negotiations, diplomatic and political activities, the Iranian nuclear issue was resolved in mid-2015 with the provision of implementing the accord in a decade. As a member of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) Permanent Five (P5) P5+1 since April 2010 who negotiated the deal, China’s moderate role has attracted global attention. While the United States, Russia, and European countries played a crucial role, Beijing’s position in resolving the issue is not insignificant. Given China’s interests in the region—ranging from economic, commercial, energy, and regional security to strategic concerns—while being one of the quiet negotiators, Beijing periodically dispatched its envoys and others to influence Tehran’s responses. In the coming years, China’s role is expected to show benefits in terms of energy deals as well as infrastructure developments and even arms sales to Tehran.