The new Syrian government needs rebuilding aid, but Beijing is deeply concerned about Uyghur militant groups in the country. Analysts say the two sides must overcome the hurdle of Xinjiang-linked militants integrated into Syrian forces. A Chinese scholar highlights China's potential significant role in Syria's economic reconstruction.
Syria's transitional government, formed after Bashar al-Assad's fall last year, is seeking international aid to rebuild the war-torn nation. China, a key player in the Belt and Road Initiative, could play a significant role here. However, Beijing is highly vigilant about Uyghur militant groups in Syria, which participated in the fight against the Assad regime and have integrated into Syrian armed forces.
Analysts point out that this issue is the main obstacle to improving China-Syria relations. The Uyghur groups include the Turkestan Islamic Movement and the East Turkestan Islamic Movement (ETIM), linked to al-Qaeda and designated as terrorist organizations by the United Nations Security Council. China fears these groups could threaten stability in Xinjiang.
Sun Degang, director of the Centre for Middle Eastern Studies at Fudan University, said: “Syria’s top priority is economic reconstruction, an area where China could play a significant role.” He urged the new government to act against these Xinjiang-linked Uyghur militant groups.
While allies like Russia support the new Syrian regime, Western countries including the United States remain skeptical of Islamist militants such as Hayat Tahrir al-Sham. China hopes to ensure the security of its reconstruction investments through diplomatic efforts while safeguarding its national interests.