Can China Be The JCPoA’s Last Hope?
The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPoA), also known as the Iran Nuclear Deal, is a historic agreement between Iran and six world powers: the United States, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Russia, and China. The agreement was designed to restrict Iran’s nuclear activities in exchange for the lifting of economic sanctions. Unfortunately, the United States withdrew from the deal in 2018, subsequently re-imposing harsh sanctions on Iran.
The Impact of US Withdrawal
The withdrawal of the United States from the JCPoA had a significant impact on the agreement. Without the US’ financial and political support, the deal became increasingly fragile and could no longer be sustained. The remaining signatories were unable to mitigate the economic effects of the US sanctions, which had far-reaching consequences for Iran’s economy.
China’s Role in the JCPoA
Amidst this fragile situation, China has emerged as a key player in the JCPoA. China is one of the few countries with the economic and political clout to challenge the US sanctions on Iran. It has also been actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to keep the deal alive. For instance, in 2019, China proposed a “double suspension” plan that would ease US sanctions on Iran in exchange for a reduction of Iran’s nuclear activities.
China’s Economic Leverage
China has strong economic ties with Iran, which gives it considerable leverage in the JCPoA negotiations. China is Iran’s largest trading partner and has invested heavily in its infrastructure and energy sectors. China has also provided Iran with financial assistance to help mitigate the economic effects of US sanctions.
China’s Diplomatic Role
In addition to its economic leverage, China has also taken a leading role in diplomatic efforts to salvage the JCPoA. It has maintained close ties with the remaining signatories, and has actively sought to find a diplomatic solution to the crisis. China has also held talks with the United States in an effort to persuade it to rejoin the deal.
China’s Long-Term Interests
China’s involvement in the JCPoA is not only motivated by its desire to protect the agreement, but also by its long-term strategic interests in the region. China is keen to ensure that Iran remains a stable and reliable partner, and that regional tensions do not escalate further. It is also keen to ensure that the US does not gain too much influence in the region.
Conclusion
The JCPoA is at a critical juncture. Without US involvement, the agreement is unlikely to be sustained in the long-term. China’s economic clout and diplomatic efforts have helped to keep the deal alive, but a lasting solution is yet to be found. It remains to be seen if China can be the JCPoA’s last hope.
