The People's Republic of China's Economic Growth and Foreign Policy
Abstract
This thesis explores whether a causal relationship exists between the People's Republic of China's foreign policy and in its economic policy. Specifically, it explores how China's overall economic policy has led it to become involved in countries that are considered political pariahs by many countries but that have established or potential petroleum resources to which China hopes to gain exclusive or at least first chance rights. Concentrating on those relationships, the thesis explores the extent to which Beijing has acted on the international political stage to protect those countries from international pressure and to preserve their political status quo because of China's economic ties with those countries. In three case studies focused on Iraq, Iran, and the Sudan, the thesis finds that Beijing's overall foreign policy is little affected by its economic ties with those countries. In each case, the thesis finds that China's economic ties are more important to Iraq, Iran, and the Sudan than to Beijing, and that such ties are small among overall Chinese economic concerns. Additionally, the thesis finds that Beijing defends these countries in international forums based on longstanding foreign policy considerations of upholding sovereignty and not on economic policy.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 2006
- Accession Number
- ADA457559
Entities
People
- Andrew Platten
Organizations
- Naval Postgraduate School