Yemeni Perceptions of China's Belt and Road Initiative

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This research delves into the intricate dynamics between Yemen's participation in the BRI and the subsequent developments. The study employs a survey to gauge the perceptions of individuals from diverse educational backgrounds regarding China's influence in Yemen. Findings indicate that a significant majority (96.2%) perceive China positively in Yemen, with 92.9% supporting Chinese investments. This research sheds light on the impact of China's initiative on Yemen, a strategically important yet often overlooked nation in global discussions. The uniqueness of this study lies in its holistic approach, amalgamating historical analysis, practical evaluation, and empirical data from questionnaires to provide a multifaceted view of the BRI's implementation in Yemen. It contributes significantly to the field by offering a detailed analysis of a critical international relationship within the framework of an important global development strategy. Yemeni Perception China’s Belt and Road Initiative Strategic Partnership Developmental Strategy Figures Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 1 Introduction The launch of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in March 2015, signaled by two pivotal meetings in Beijing attended by representatives from 31 provincial-level regions, marked the emergence of a transformative global policy framework. These high-level discussions underscored the BRI’s centrality to China’s foreign policy agenda for that year, reflecting a notable shift in China’s international strategy. Departing from the earlier doctrine of tao guang yang hui —which advocated for maintaining a low profile and biding one’s time—China has increasingly prioritized diplomatic engagement and economic integration as principal means of advancing its strategic interests. Officially termed the “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road” by the Chinese government, the BRI seeks to foster financial integration, enhance transportation and logistical connectivity, facilitate trade, and promote policy coordination among more than 65 countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. This ambitious initiative encompasses regions that collectively possess approximately 75% of the world’s energy reserves and generate 55% of global economic output, thereby holding far-reaching implications for infrastructure investment, trade, tourism, and regional development. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is poised to exert a significant influence across the Middle East, though the degree of benefit is expected to vary among countries in the region. Yemen, despite enduring persistent challenges such as armed conflict, economic instability, and acute security threats, stands to gain from Chinese investment—particularly in the realm of infrastructure development, including power generation and port facilities. Chinese commitments in Yemen have included agreements to construct power plants and expand major cargo ports, with projects such as the Aden Container Terminal expansion valued at over $ 500 million and intended to increase the country’s logistical capacity. Although the escalation of conflict has delayed the implementation of several projects and prompted the withdrawal of Chinese personnel following security incidents such as the 2019 Battle of Aden, these agreements remain in force and are anticipated to resume once stability is restored. China’s ongoing engagement is further underscored by its provision of humanitarian aid and its stated intention to participate in Yemen’s postwar reconstruction, reflecting a broader commitment to supporting development and stability in the country through the BRI framework. Nevertheless, persistent security risks, including terrorist threats to critical infrastructure, continue to pose substantial obstacles to the realization of these projects. Despite these setbacks, China’s sustained interest signals the potential for the BRI to contribute meaningfully to Yemen’s long-term recovery and integration into regional economic networks. 2 Theoretical Framework This study employs liberalism as its principal theoretical lens to examine Yemeni perceptions of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Liberal theory in international relations posits that cooperation, mutual benefit, and progress are attainable through economic interdependence, international institutions, and diplomatic engagement. Unlike realist perspectives, which emphasize inherent conflict and power-seeking behavior among states, liberalism suggests that actors—both states and individuals—are capable of altruism, collaboration, and the pursuit of shared interests. International institutions, according to liberalism, play a pivotal role in managing conflict and fostering enduring peace. Applying this framework to the Yemen-China relationship, the BRI is conceptualized as a form of economic diplomacy that enables smaller, strategically situated states such as Yemen to leverage large-scale international initiatives for developmental gains. China’s sustained investment in Yemen’s infrastructure, particularly in sectors like energy and logistics, exemplifies liberalism’s emphasis on economic interdependence as a catalyst for cooperation and mutual advancement, even in contexts characterized by asymmetrical power relations. Empirical evidence from the survey conducted in this study robustly supports the liberal paradigm. The results reveal that an overwhelming majority of Yemeni respondents—over 90%—hold a positive view of China, with 92.9% explicitly welcoming Chinese investment in Yemen. Furthermore, most participants believe that the BRI will play a significant role in Yemen’s future development and will contribute positively to the country’s economic growth and infrastructure. These findings align with liberal theory’s core assertion that economic cooperation and interdependence foster positive perceptions and mutually beneficial relationships between states, regardless of disparities in power and resources. However, the data also illuminate critical complexities that temper the optimism of liberal theory. While support for the BRI is widespread, a substantial proportion of respondents’ express concerns about Yemen’s potential economic dependency on China and the attendant risks to national sovereignty. Many participants indicated that they are “very concerned” about the possibility of debt or overreliance on foreign capital. This ambivalence underscores the necessity of a nuanced application of liberalism—one that acknowledges the institutional and structural asymmetries inherent in such partnerships and the potential for dependency to undermine long-term strategic autonomy. Additionally, it is important to recognize the limitations of the survey sample, which is skewed towards younger and more highly educated Yemenis. This demographic profile may not fully capture the diversity of perspectives present in the broader Yemeni population, and thus, the generalizability of the findings should be approached with caution. Future research should endeavor to include a more representative cross-section of Yemeni society to validate and extend these insights. In summary, the Yemeni case illustrates both the explanatory power and the limitations of liberal theory. While the BRI is largely perceived as a vehicle for mutual benefit and partnership—consistent with liberal expectations—there remain salient concerns about dependency and sovereignty that complicate the narrative of unmitigated cooperation. This study thus contributes to the broader literature by demonstrating how liberal mechanisms operate in practice, while also highlighting the enduring relevance of power dynamics and institutional constraints in shaping international economic relations. 3 Data Analysis & Discussion The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the collected data and to address the research objectives. Following the coding and systematic entry of the data, a series of statistical procedures were performed. To ensure consistency and facilitate meaningful comparisons across the study sample, survey items originally measured on varying scales (including four-point, three-point, and two-point formats) were standardized to a unified five-point Likert scale. This standardization enabled the alignment of responses and enhanced the comparability of results across different variables. The parameters of the five-point scale, including its minimum and maximum values, were clearly defined for each research dimension to maintain analytical rigor and interpretive clarity. 3.1 First, the stability of the scale As presented in Table 1 , the reliability of the scale was evaluated using Cronbach’s Alpha, which produced a coefficient of 0.886 for the questionnaire items. This result reflects a high degree of internal consistency, as the reliability score of 88.6% substantially exceeds the commonly accepted threshold of 0.70. Such a value indicates that the instrument demonstrates strong reliability for measuring the constructs of interest within this study. Table 1 For Cronbach's Alpha test Cronbach Value of coefficient statement 0.886 Questionnaire paragraphs 3.2 Study sample characteristics by type Participants' information Table 2 Demographic information’s of survey participants Gender Male Female Total 329 (78.5%) 90 (21.5%) 419 (100%) Age 18–24y 25–34y 35–44y 45–60y 61–80y Total 77 (24%) 229 (54.7%) 81 (19.3%) 28 (6.6%) 4 (0.95) 419 (100%) Education High School Undergraduate Master Ph.D. Postdoctoral Total 37 (8.8%) 200 (47.7%) 113 (27%) 69 (16.5%) 4 (0.9%) 419 (100%) Geographical Area West North South Middle East Total 117 (27.9%) 195 (46.7%) 31 (7.5%) 52 (12.41%) 24 (5.7%) 419 (100%) Variable: n (%). Undergraduate: Bachelor Degree. Ph.D.: Doctoral Degree. The demographic profile of the study’s participants reveals several important trends relevant to the interpretation and generalizability of the findings. The sample is predominantly male and is composed mainly of individuals in the 25–34 age group, followed by those aged 35–44 and 18–24. Together, these age categories constitute the vast majority of respondents, indicating that the perspectives captured are largely those of young and middle-aged adults. In terms of educational attainment, the sample is heavily weighted toward individuals with higher education. Nearly half of the participants hold undergraduate degrees, with a substantial proportion possessing master’s and doctoral qualifications. By contrast, respondents with only secondary or high school education represent a much smaller segment of the sample. This pronounced skew toward higher educational backgrounds suggests that the results may disproportionately reflect the views of a more educated demographic, potentially limiting the applicability of the findings to the broader Yemeni population. While the sample size is sufficiently large to support robust statistical analysis, the overrepresentation of highly educated and younger respondents must be acknowledged as a limitation. As a result, the findings offer valuable insights into the perceptions of Yemen’s educated urban population but should be interpreted with caution when making inferences about less-educated or older segments of society. Future research would benefit from a more balanced sampling strategy to enhance representativeness and external validity, thereby providing a more comprehensive understanding of public attitudes toward China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Yemen. 4 Establishing a Strategic Partnership between Yemen and China China regards global peace as indispensable for the realization of its major international initiatives, most notably the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is designed to open new markets and secure global supply chains, thereby promoting sustained economic growth and social stability within China. As Robert S. Ross has observed, peace and prosperity are inextricably linked, particularly in regions marked by great power competition. Over the past three decades, China’s rapid economic expansion has been driven by significant government investment and technological innovation, which have reduced transaction costs and facilitated broader market access. In 2013, President Xi Jinping introduced the “Silk Road Economic Belt” and the “21st Century Maritime Silk Road,” collectively known as the BRI. This initiative seeks to address domestic economic challenges, enhance regional connectivity, and extend China’s influence through large-scale infrastructure development. The BRI encompasses two principal routes: the Silk Road Economic Belt, which traverses Central Asia to reach Europe, and the Maritime Silk Road, which links Asia to Europe via sea, with key stops in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa4. Through these corridors, the BRI aims not only to foster economic integration but also to serve as a catalyst for peace and stability by strengthening interdependence among participating countries. The historical relationship between China and Yemen extends over two millennia, originating from the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated robust trade and cultural exchanges between Arab and Chinese civilizations. Yemen’s strategic significance is rooted in its unique geographic position, serving as a vital bridge connecting Asia, Africa, the Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean. Bilateral engagement has been underpinned by shared economic interests and Yemen’s pivotal location. However, several challenges complicate the advancement of China-Yemen relations. Chief among these is China’s prioritization of economic and energy partnerships with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states over Yemen, largely due to the GCC’s greater economic weight and urgency in China’s strategic calculus. Historically, Yemen has been integrated into China’s broader Gulf policy, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) taking precedence, reflecting Beijing’s alignment with its core economic objectives in the region. In recent years, China has shifted from pursuing an independent Yemen policy to cautiously aligning with Riyadh’s approach, a move that some observers interpret as tacit support for Yemen’s adversaries. This realignment has the potential to strain bilateral relations, as encapsulated by the Yemeni proverb, “Nevertheless, the enduring historical ties and longstanding cooperation between China and Yemen continue to foster positive perceptions of China among the Yemeni populace, as evidenced by consistently favorable public opinion and support for Chinese investment in Yemen. The partnership between China and Yemen under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) encompasses four principal domains: policy coordination, connectivity, trade and investment, and energy cooperation. However, both countries approach and interpret the BRI framework through the lens of their respective national interests and international positions, resulting in divergent perspectives on the realization of the New Silk Road’s vision. Historically, economic ties between Yemen and China were formalized with a trade agreement in January 1958, facilitating the export of Yemeni products such as milk, cotton, tobacco, and sesame, and the import of Chinese goods including iron, vehicles, machinery, construction tools, chemicals, silk, and agricultural items. Despite these agreements, early efforts to deepen trade relations faced significant obstacles. Chinese trade delegations encountered challenges related to the incomplete infrastructure of Hodeidah port and the absence of adequate banking facilities, which impeded the importation of goods and the execution of financial transactions. These logistical and financial difficulties were noted as early as 1959, with Chinese representatives expressing frustration over delays and losses incurred during cargo unloading at Hodeidah, leading to substantial financial setbacks along traditional trade routes. This issue was raised as early as July 1959 by Chinese representatives in Taiz, who expressed frustration over the time lost and equipment damage during unloading at the Hodeidah port, resulting in significant financial losses along traditional trade routes. Furthermore, competition between China and the Soviet Union intensified during this period, with both powers seeking to expand their influence in Yemen by offering credit to Yemeni merchants and establishing agency businesses in major cities such as Sana'a, Ibb, Zabid, Hodeidah, and Taiz. Notably, China’s economic engagement included the construction of key infrastructure, such as the Sana’a Textile Factory and the Sana’a-Hodeidah highway, projects that not only enhanced Yemen’s industrial capacity but also symbolized the depth of bilateral cooperation. Despite these historical foundations, the trajectory of China-Yemen economic relations has been shaped by evolving geopolitical dynamics, regional competition, and Yemen’s persistent internal challenges. The ongoing civil conflict and instability have constrained the full realization of BRI projects and limited the expansion of bilateral trade and investment in recent years37. Nevertheless, China’s sustained interest in Yemen, particularly in infrastructure and energy sectors, underscores the potential for renewed collaboration and mutual benefit as conditions stabilize and the BRI continues to evolve as a cornerstone of China’s foreign policy in the Middle East. Yemen’s imports predominantly consist of foodstuffs, chemicals, and machinery, while its exports include commodities such as gold and various food products destined for neighboring countries. In 2019, Yemen imported goods valued at approximately $ 4.72 billion, compared to exports of around $ 23.8 million, reflecting a significant trade deficit. Yemen maintains trade relations with over 130 countries globally; however, trade with some partners, notably Bahrain, has sharply declined since the outbreak of civil war in 2015, now representing only a fraction of former volumes. Despite these challenges, Yemen has seen gradual improvements in its traditional cooperative ties, signaling potential for renewed economic engagement and regional integration. In May 2016, Deputy Minister Zhai Jun led a Chinese delegation to Riyadh for the third ministerial meeting of the 'Friends of Yemen Group,' meeting Yemen’s Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Yamani. Concurrently, Al-Yamani attended the fifth ministerial meeting of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum in Tunis, underscoring ongoing diplomatic engagement. According to Chinese customs data, Yemen’s exports to China have primarily comprised fossil fuels, primary products, and coffee beans, with 92% of Yemen’s oil exports directed to China in 2012. Yemen imports electromechanical equipment, machinery, electrical appliances, and clothing from China; in 2012, electromechanical equipment accounted for 42.8% of Yemen’s imports from China, machinery 25.6%, and electrical appliances 14.5%. Bilateral trade volume generally increased until 2013 but sharply declined following Yemen’s political turmoil beginning in 2014 and the full-scale civil war in 2015. This instability disrupted trade and caused Yemen to miss opportunities offered by China as an international provider of public goods, such as membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which Yemen has yet to join. Recent data indicate that China remains a key import partner, accounting for roughly 22–30% of Yemen’s imports, including machinery, electronics, and textiles, while Yemen’s exports to China have significantly decreased in value over recent years. Despite ongoing conflict and economic fragmentation, prospects for Yemen’s recovery and enhanced bilateral cooperation hinge on political stabilization and renewed investment. Since 2015, bilateral trade between China and Yemen has declined due to ongoing violence in Yemen’s central oil-producing regions, which has severely constrained the country’s oil exports. Trade began to recover in 2016, with total two-way trade reaching $ 2.56 billion in 2018, less than half of the 2012 level. From January to June 2019, China exported goods worth $ 870 million to Yemen and imported $ 260 million, totaling $ 1.13 billion in trade. Yemen’s crude oil exports to China decreased by 23.6% to 1.04 million tons during this period. The structure of imports and exports between the two countries has remained largely unchanged: China imports energy and a small quantity of bulk agricultural products such as coffee from Yemen, while exporting textiles, mechanical and electrical goods, metals, grains, and oil products. Since 2017, Chinese companies including Huawei, ZTE, and Xiaomi have established offices in Yemen and partnered with the country’s two largest telecommunications providers, SabaFon and Spacetel (YOU), offering base station installation services and marketing smartphones. Although Yemen’s imports from China grew in 2018, economic ties between the two countries remain at a low point. However, with China’s Belt and Road Initiative and Yemen’s prospects for political and economic recovery, bilateral cooperation is expected to improve in the future. Analysis of trade data over the past eight years shows that Yemen’s exports to China have been negatively affected and reduced due to the ongoing civil war. China’s strategic initiative underscores the importance of coordinated investment and trade among nations, with particular emphasis on its relationship with Yemen. Beijing perceives significant economic benefits in achieving lasting peace and ending military conflicts in Yemen, as this would secure access to the strategically vital Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), involving over 72 countries, spans six economic corridors and covers industries that serve approximately two-thirds of the global population, 40% of the world’s GDP, and an estimated 75% of known energy reserves. However, China’s interests in Yemen face considerable challenges due to the ongoing civil war. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, China’s investments in Yemen remain modest, comprising 14 enterprises and approximately 460 personnel engaged in sectors such as oil extraction, telecommunications, construction, road infrastructure, and fisheries. Despite the relatively small scale of investment, China continues to strengthen its economic ties with Yemen. Diplomatically, China supports Yemen’s internationally recognized government, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Beijing advocates for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through internal dialogue among Yemeni parties and urges all sides to refrain from violence. Unlike other major powers involved in regional confrontations, China maintains a neutral stance, engaging with all factions in Yemen’s conflict. This approach grants China a strategic advantage in the region, which it can leverage to further develop bilateral relations with Yemen. The potential to enhance bilateral trade between Yemen and China spans several key sectors, beginning with energy resources. Yemen’s abundant oil and natural gas reserves align with China’s status as a major importer, creating opportunities for increased trade in both conventional and renewable energy, including wind and solar power. Yemen’s rich agricultural heritage offers high-quality products such as coffee, honey, and fruits that are currently underrepresented in the Chinese market but could meet growing demand driven by China’s expanding middle class. Additionally, Yemen’s modest manufacturing sector—particularly textiles, leather goods, and handicrafts—holds growth potential, where China’s industrial capacity could support development. The tourism sector also presents opportunities given Yemen’s historical sites and cultural richness, although ongoing instability may hinder its post-war growth. Investment is critical for advancing bilateral relations, with China well-positioned to invest in Yemen’s infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors. Strengthening cultural ties remains equally important, fostering mutual trust and laying the foundation for sustainable cooperation. Engaging Yemen’s major tribes, as practiced by Saudi Arabia, is advisable given their significant societal role. Finally, prioritizing humanitarian efforts is essential; establishing a Chinese foundation in Yemen to deliver direct aid could complement existing international assistance and enhance China’s positive presence in the country. Exporting goods internationally is vital for driving economic growth in Yemen, generating income that can be invested in critical areas such as infrastructure development and education. Additionally, exports create employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including production, logistics, and sales. Engaging in international markets also encourages domestic companies to innovate and improve product quality to meet global standards, fostering technological advancement. Diversifying the economy through exports is a key strategy for Yemen, as expanding into new markets and developing emerging sectors can significantly contribute to economic resilience. Historically, Yemen has been an important export partner for China. Trade between the two countries flourished from 2000 to 2015; however, the outbreak of conflict in Yemen in 2015 caused a sharp decline in Yemeni exports to China, adversely affecting Yemen’s economy. Yemen’s diverse climate and abundant natural resources—including oil, fish, rock salt, marble, and minerals such as coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper—underpin its export potential. Fertile soils in western Yemen also support agricultural production. China’s imports from Yemen constitute a notable share of Yemen’s total exports, indicating room for growth that could bolster Yemen’s development and strengthen bilateral relations. Coffee, in particular, stands out as a significant commodity due to its global demand and cultural heritage, ranking second only to crude oil among traded Yemeni products. In December 2022, the global export volume of coffee declined to 10.88 million bags from 11.89 million bags in December 2021. Despite this overall decrease, Yemeni Mocha coffee—renowned for its distinctive and refined flavor—has maintained its unique status in the global market. Named after the historic port city of Mocha in Taiz Yemen, this coffee variety remains highly sought after. Recent analyses of Yemeni green coffee samples have demonstrated superior quality across various chemical components, underscoring its competitiveness in both quality and price. Given these attributes, increasing the import share of Yemeni coffee could benefit China by meeting the growing demand of its large and expanding consumer market. Moreover, scientific evaluations confirm that Yemeni seafood meets international standards and complies with food safety regulations, making it suitable for both domestic consumption and export. Yemen’s extensive marine resources stretch from the Arabian Sea bordering Oman to the Red Sea adjacent to Saudi Arabia. With over 182 islands, including notable ones such as Socotra and Abd al Kuri, Yemen’s fisheries sector represents a vital source of renewable natural resources and a significant contributor to national income. Prior to the conflict, Yemen produced approximately 200,000 tons of fish and marine products annually, with exports accounting for 30% to 50% of this volume and generating around $ 300 million in revenue. Yemen’s coastal waters are home to diverse fish species—including tuna, mackerel, sardines, cod, grouper, shrimp, and others—supporting a fishing community of roughly 500,000 individuals and providing sustenance for approximately 1.7 million people each year. Despite this evident potential, Yemeni fish products have yet to enter the Chinese market. Given the robustness and scale of China’s seafood market, Yemeni fisheries are well-positioned to find a lucrative niche once market access is established. 5 China’s Belt and Road Initiative Partnership Expectations To achieve the study's objectives and analyze the data collected from a broad spectrum of Yemenis regarding their understanding of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, various appropriate statistical methods were employed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The researcher aimed to disseminate the research across multiple platforms and through various channels to maximize participant engagement. The questionnaire for this study was distributed to a total of 424 individuals, comprising 333 males and 91 females. The questionnaire aimed to ascertain several key points, including: Assessing the level of knowledge among Yemeni people regarding the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative. Understanding Yemeni perspectives on China as a country and gauging their receptiveness towards Chinese investments in Yemen. Evaluating Yemeni sentiments towards China and the Belt and Road Initiative's potential to facilitate comprehensive development in Yemen post-war and during the reconstruction phase. Examining Yemeni citizens' perceptions regarding the potential impact of Belt and Road Initiative projects on economic development and infrastructure improvement in Yemen in the future. Exploring Yemenis' aspirations for fostering bilateral relations between the two countries under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative. 6 The Belt and Road Initiative: Economic and Political Discussion 6.1 If China's "Belt and Road" initiative positively impacts Yemen's development, will China support Yemen's participation in the future With 390 members, 92.2% support China's initiative. However, regarding Yemen's benefits from joining the Belt and Road Initiative, the percentage is lower, as 307 (72.6%) believe that Yemen will benefit from joining China's initiative. Yemenis were asked about the importance of Yemen's initiative to China, and 336 (79.4%) thought it was important/significant. The output was perceived positively, serving as motivation for both parties and leveraging the social acceptance of the initiative. 6.2 Do you think the Belt and Road Initiative is a train that Yemen should take 52.8% of the respondents (253 people) said that China's initiative is the only way for Yemen to move towards development and a better future. Some people (with an average share of 29%) believe that the Belt and Road Initiative could be a good thing and could benefit Yemen. On the other hand, a tiny proportion of 3.3% of participants believe the opposite. 6.3 Research sample (Yemenis) views on China's development: Table 4 Yemeni's perception of China's development Compare standard deviation verbal appreciation significance level Statistical regulations What do you think of China's development 4.33 0.975 Excellent/Very much agree 0.000 Difference exists What are your views on China's economic development 4.56 0.832 Excellent/Very much agree 0.000 Difference exists What do you think of China's political developments 3.63 1.214 Excellent/agree 0.000 Difference exists What do you think of China's rapid development 4.53 0.856 Excellent/Very much agree 0.000 Difference exists What do you think of the quality of China's development 4.08 1.035 Excellent/agree 0.000 Difference exists grand mean axis 4.22 0.77 Excellent/Very much agree 0.000 Difference exists The analysis results show that Yemeni citizens hold a positive view of China's development, especially in economic terms, with an average response value of 4.56 and a standard deviation of 0.832. The indicated level of the single sample test (v) suggests consistency with the hypothesized medium difference (3), where the indicated level is equivalent to 0.000, indicating a significant, positive, and robust difference. Researchers believe China has made significant progress in various fields and has become an essential global force. They also believe that China's development speed and quality are very high. The average answer in this paragraph is 4.53, the standard deviation is minimal, 0.856, and the indicative test level of a single sample is equal to 0.000, indicating a difference from the assumed mean. (3) Positive, when the verbal estimate describing the views of the study sample is (very high/strongly agree), the sample study, therefore, believes that it has benefited from the "Belt and Road" strategy with other countries, indicating that they appreciate China's efforts in recent years and achievements. They believe in China's ability to achieve sustainable and comprehensive progress. Some factors may contribute to this belief, such as China's trade and investment exchanges with Yemen, which help create jobs, increase income, and improve the living standards of the Yemeni people. In 2022, the merchandise trade volume between the two countries will reach 3.6 billion USD, a year-on-year increase of 9.4% [1]. Chinese companies have also invested in energy, petrochemicals, construction, and telecommunications in Yemen. Regarding politics, Yemeni citizens have a slightly lower positive view of China's development, with a mean response of 3.63 and a standard deviation of 1.214. However, it is still high, as D is statistically significant in the single sample test results, with a p-value of 0.000, it is considered a high estimate (high/high). which may be due to different systems and cultures between China and Arab countries, or hot issues affecting their common interests. 6.4 The impact of the "One Belt, One Road" initiative and the Yemeni people's expectations regarding Yemen-China relations Answers to research questions: First : Sample research trends between Yemen and China on the Belt and Road Initiative Form 8. represents the average study sample answer and the one-sample V test mean difference 3. Table 8 Yemeni perceptions on belt and road initiative Compare standard deviation verbal appreciation significance level Statistical regulations Do you think the "One Belt, One Road" initiative will benefit Yemen's future development 4.67 0.887 positive influence/Very much agree 0.000 Difference exists Do you think "One Belt, One Road " initiative will have a positive impact on Yemen's future political stability 4.0082 1.09846 maybe/agree 0.000 Difference exists Do you think "One Belt, One Road " initiative will help Yemen's future infrastructure development 4.42 1.107 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists If the Belt and Road Initiative has positively impacted the development of Yemen, do you support its implementation in Yemen 4.83 0.619 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists Yemen joins "One Belt, One Road. "Is it suitable for us Yemenis 4.43 0.954 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists Do you think the Belt and Road Initiative will help the overall development of Yemen 4.19 1.137 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists From your perspective, do you think there any benefits China will gain from the “One Belt, One Road " initiative 4.5484 0.88440 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists Do you think China's growing influence is a good thing for Yemen 3.98 1.271 maybe/agree 0.000 Difference exists Can Yemen learn from China's development experience 4.7393 0.70803 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists Does China think the "One Belt, One Road "Initiative will create jobs and an investment environment in Yemen 4.62 0.857 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists What do you think of China's “Belt and Road” Initiative is foreign policy better than that of other great powers 4.51 1.319 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists grand mean axis 4.3566 0.59632 Yes/strongly agree 0.000 Difference exists The results in Table 8 show that the sample studies tend to be strongly consistent with all passages measuring their trend toward the B.R.I. Outputs show that they regard the Belt and Road Initiative as an opportunity to develop cooperation with China. The lowest paragraph also had a positive average: "Can China play a key role in resolving the crisis in Yemen" The average answer given was 3.94, i.e., the sample studies were consistent with this paragraph, but not firmly, that the Belt and Road Initiative could have a positive impact on Yemen's Future political stability and normative deviation have a positive effect: 1.314, that is, there is an average difference in the opinion of this paragraph among the sample studies, some are optimistic, and some are pessimistic, so this paper get a verbal endorsement: "Maybe/Agree," which means that the sample study moderately supports this paragraph, and believes that the "One Belt, One Road" initiative may have a positive impact on Yemen's future political stability. First, the "One Belt, One Road" initiative is a step toward development and political stability in Yemen. Considering its importance, the author found it to be 0. 000, which means a significant difference between the mean and the specific value (3), indicating that the assumption that the study sample is consistent with this paragraph is correct. Hence, statistical judgment: There is a difference, which means that the sample study has a clear positive trend for this period, and this trend is not accidental. It can be seen that Chinese initiatives have garnered a generally favorable perception among the Yemeni public, welcomes Chinese investment in Yemen, and hopes that relations between the two countries will further improve. China’s positive standing indicates that Yemenis view it as a strategic partner, recognize its role in the Belt and Road Initiative, acknowledge the benefits China derives from the initiative, and understand its objectives in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. Responses demonstrate an understanding of China's interests and objectives in the Belt and Road initiative. 6.5 Setting for differences based on demographic variables 1- Test differences based on type Table 9 Test showing differences by type type average standard deviation Value V significance level Statistical regulations Axis: A sample study of China-Yemen "Belt and Road" development trends male 4.41 0.56 4.132 0.000 By calculating the average, male and female responses were different. Both men and women believe the Belt and Road Initiative between Yemen and China has positively impacted both countries. Still, women are more optimistic about the Yemen-China Road Initiative. female 4.13 0.64 axis: China Development Research Sample male 4.31 0.73 4.17 0.000 The difference between male and female responses and calculated averages suggests that both men and women believe that the Belt and Road Initiative between Yemen and China will positively impact both countries. Still, this time, men appear to be more confident that the Chinese government is doing a real job in achieving China's goals and development performance. female 3.90 0.84 2- Age difference test Table 10 showing age difference test sum of square free score ordinary box Value q significance level Axis: Yemen-China One Belt, One Road Sample Research Trends for Initiatives Between groups 2.775 4 0.694 1.969 0.098 within the group 145.862 414 0.352 total 148.637 418 axis: China Development Research Sample Between groups 1.366 4 0.341 0.567 0.687 within the group 249.366 414 0.602 total 250.732 418 The results in Table (10) show no age difference. Therefore, research samples of different age groups tend to agree on the "Ye Zhong Belt" initiative and China's development. Thus, all sample members across various age groups viewed initiatives from both Yemen and China positively, and age did not influence their opinion. 7 Conclusion This study critically examines the impact of China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on Yemen, a country often marginalized in broader geopolitical discourse despite its strategic significance in the Arabian Peninsula. By focusing on Yemen’s role within the BRI framework, this research challenges prevailing assumptions about the nation’s geopolitical relevance and highlights the complex interplay between international investment and local socio-economic dynamics. The analysis reveals a nuanced sentiment among the Yemeni population toward China’s involvement—marked by cautious optimism about economic opportunities driven primarily by trade and investment, alongside skepticism regarding the long-term sustainability of these prospects amid Yemen’s ongoing political instability and fragmented governance. Beyond potential economic gains, this study explores the socio-political challenges Yemen faces in leveraging foreign initiatives to its advantage. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it integrates historical context, empirical data, and statistical analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the BRI’s influence on Yemen. The research examines Yemen’s infrastructural needs, China’s strategic interests, and the practical complexities of implementing large-scale international projects in a conflict-affected state. It further assesses the risks and benefits of this ambitious undertaking, emphasizing the gap between political rhetoric and the realities of economic integration. In highlighting Yemen’s position within the BRI, this study underscores the necessity for more context-sensitive research that addresses the unique socio-political and economic conditions of fragile states. It advocates for a critical, tailored approach to foreign investment that prioritizes sustainable development and considers the long-term socio-economic fabric of host countries. By situating Yemen within the broader discourse of global development, this research calls for policymakers and scholars to reconsider how large-scale international initiatives can be designed to maximize benefits for countries at the periphery of global economic power. Declarations The author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship and/or publication of this article. Consent to participate Informed consent to participate in the study was obtained from participants. Consent to publish Consent to publish was obtained from all respondents or legal guardians before using the data. Ethics Statement An ethical approval from Lanzhou University was obtained IRB25082901. Competing interests The authors declare no competing interests. Funding This research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. The author received no funding for this research. Author Contribution HAZEM MOJAHED AMMAR wrote the paper, and SAAD BINMUAADH ALKAHTANI helped with proofreading and data collection. Professor Zhou the one who revise the whole paper. Acknowledgement Thanks to Lanzhou University for their support during my research and Sun Yat-sen University as well. Data Availability The datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request. References Xue, L.J.J.o.C.E.A.S., China's Foreign Policy Decision-Making Mechanism and “One Belt One Road” Strategy. 2016. 5(2): p. 23–35. Al-Khawlani, H., China Prioritizes Gulf Economic, Oil Relationships; Yemen Can Wait. 2021. Al-jubari, R.H.H., China’s Initial Understanding of Yemen . 2024: BELT AND ROAD JOURNALIST NETWORK. Al-Masdar Newspaper’,2020, Al-Masdar Online interviews the Chinese ambassador to Yemen about Corona and the Yemeni issue. Kan Young: The Yemeni issue is complicated because there are many external players. Abdulkader, M., The forgotten war. Journal of Global Faultlines, 2023. 10(1): p. 43–57. Saaida, M. 2024. Criticism of the Liberal Theory of International Politics. Fulton, J. (2019). China’s Belt and Road Initiative in the Gulf: External Powers and Regional Integration. Asian Affairs, 50(2), 205–223. https://doi.org/10.1080/03068374.2019.1602382 . Lewis, D. J., Yang, X. & Moise, D. 2021, 1 January. Dynamic synergies between China's belt and road initiative and the UN's sustainable development goals. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7817961/ Ross, R.S.J.J.o.E.A.S., The US-China peace: Great power politics, spheres of influence, and the peace of East Asia. 2003. 3(3): p. 351–375. De Simone, I. 2022, 1 January. The Belt and Road Initiative: an analysis through a systematic literature review. https://unitesi.unive.it/handle/20.500.14247/15645 . Muhammad, A., Mike, M. E. E. & Idris, M. B. 2023. The belt and road initiative: implications for infrastructure development and economic integration in Eurasia. J Environ Sci. Park, I. 2016, 1 January. U.S. – China Competition In Asia -Pacific Region: The AIIB and the new global order? https://academicworks.cuny.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1597&context=cc_etds_theses . China, E.o.t.R.o.Y.i., YEMEN – CHINA, RELATIONS . 2025 Ye, M.J.A.S., China and competing cooperation in Asia-Pacific: TPP, RCEP, and the new Silk Road. 2015. 11(3): p. 206–224. Chang, I.-w.J., China and Yemen’s Forgotten War. 2016. Kelemen, B., China’s Shifting Role in Yemen "A Historical Framework for Engaging the Houthis". 2024 Ye, M.J.A.S., China and competing cooperation in Asia-Pacific: TPP, RCEP, and the new Silk Road. 2015. 11(3): p. 206–224. Al-Khawlani, H., China Prioritizes Gulf Economic, Oil Relationships; Yemen Can Wait. 2021. Al-Jadabi, J., Slow Death of Transport Lifeline in Yemen "The Ramshackle of Road Sana'a Hodeidah ". 2022. Ferris, J. (2017). The International History of the Yemen Civil War, 1962–1968. In The International History of the Yemen Civil War, 1962–1968 (pp. 1–36). Almendron. Omar, E.A., Mending the Saudi-Iranian Rift: A Prelude for a Chinese Role in Yemen? Sana’a Center for Strategic Studies, 2023. Stimson Center. (2024, January 31) China’s shifting role inYemen. https://www.stimson.org/2024/chinas-shifting-role-in-yemen/ Saleh, M.A.K. and K.R. Manjunath, The Context for Business in Yemen, in Understanding Contexts of Business in Western Asia: Land of Bazaars and High-Tech Booms. 2022, World Scientific. p. 209–242. Ali, A., Research on bilateral trade between China and Yemen under the “Belt and Road” initiative. 2020: Soochow University. 30 Amer, E. A. A. A., Xiuwu, Z., Meyad, E. M. A. & Meyad, A. M. 2024, 1 January. The long-term relationship between oil price changes and economic growth from the perspective of the resource curse: An empirical study from Yemen. PloS one. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id= 10.1371/journal.pone.0313206 HSBC, Suez Canal: China’s Trade Flows Via the Suez. 2019. Burton, G.J.A.J.o.M.E. and I. Studies, Chinese conflict management in Libya, Syria and Yemen after the Arab Uprisings. 2019. 13(1): p. 18–34. Council, B., Cultural relations, dialogue and cooperation in an age of competition. 2021. Country Report, Yemen Geography. 2023. Fujioka, K. and T.J.F.C. Shibamoto, Chlorogenic acid and caffeine contents in various commercial brewed coffees. 2008. 106(1): p. 217–221. INCOMES, S.I. and E. TRADE, MOVING YEMEN COFFEE FORWARD. 2005. Nogaim, Q.A., et al., The chemical composition of Yemeni green coffee. 2013. 1(2): p. 42–48. Hatem, M. and G.J.B.N. Carey, Yemen's Saleh Agrees to Step Down in Exchange for Immunity, Official Says. 2011. 23. The Belt and Road Initiative: Ten years of shared achievements and responsibilities, in 中国网. 2023. Stanojević, N., Arab countries along the Maritime Silk Road. The Review of International Affairs, 2020. 71(1177): p. 5–24. Dr. Wen Se. The Belt and Road Initiative has broad prospects in the Middle East, in 中国网. 2023. Tables Tables are available in the Supplementary Files section. Additional Declarations No competing interests reported. Supplementary Files Tables.docx EthicalApprovalYemeniPerceptionsofChinaBRIAnonymized.pdf Cite Share Download PDF Status: Under Review Version 1 posted Editorial decision: Revision requested 03 Feb, 2026 Reviews received at journal 31 Jan, 2026 Reviews received at journal 30 Jan, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 29 Jan, 2026 Reviews received at journal 29 Jan, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 28 Jan, 2026 Reviewers agreed at journal 28 Jan, 2026 Reviewers invited by journal 27 Jan, 2026 Editor assigned by journal 27 Jan, 2026 Submission checks completed at journal 19 Dec, 2025 First submitted to journal 19 Dec, 2025 You are reading this latest preprint version Research Square lets you share your work early, gain feedback from the community, and start making changes to your manuscript prior to peer review in a journal. As a division of Research Square Company, we’re committed to making research communication faster, fairer, and more useful. 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Also discoverable on Platform About Our Team In Review Editorial Policies Advisory Board Help Center Resources Author Services Accessibility API Access RSS feed Manage Cookie Preferences © Research Square 2026 | ISSN 2693-5015 (online) Privacy Policy Terms of Service Do Not Sell My Personal Information {"props":{"pageProps":{"initialData":{"identity":"rs-8078314","acceptedTermsAndConditions":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"archivedVersions":[],"articleType":"Research Article","associatedPublications":[],"authors":[{"id":582210764,"identity":"bdb0cb31-1c74-493c-b593-e349f051f7ce","order_by":0,"name":"1- HAZEM MOJAHED AMMAR","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Lanzhou University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"1-","middleName":"HAZEM MOJAHED","lastName":"AMMAR","suffix":""},{"id":582210765,"identity":"7c28a4b2-4957-4022-bd20-ece36adbbb1b","order_by":1,"name":"2- SAAD BINMUAADH ALKAHTANI","email":"","orcid":"","institution":"Lanzhou University","correspondingAuthor":false,"prefix":"","firstName":"2-","middleName":"SAAD BINMUAADH","lastName":"ALKAHTANI","suffix":""},{"id":582210766,"identity":"ecee825c-892e-4bb9-a8c1-c880cb2c86d2","order_by":2,"name":"Changxian Zou","email":"data:image/png;base64,iVBORw0KGgoAAAANSUhEUgAAAZAAAAAyAQMAAABI0h/eAAAABlBMVEX///8AAABVwtN+AAAACXBIWXMAAA7EAAAOxAGVKw4bAAAAuklEQVRIiWNgGAWjYDACCTBpIwOmeEjQksZDspbDJGiRn918TOJn23ke+RkJjA/etjHImxPSwjjnWJpkz5nbPIwzEpgN57YxGO5sIKCFWSLHTJqh4jYPs0QCmzRvG0OCwQECWtjAWgzO8bBJJLD/JkoLD8SWAzw8QFuYidIiIZGWbNlzJplHgudhs+SccxKGGwhpkZ+RfPDGzzY7Ofn25IMf3pTZyBO0BQkwNjDAomkUjIJRMApGAYUAAOpmMvWOHQQ/AAAAAElFTkSuQmCC","orcid":"","institution":"Lanzhou University","correspondingAuthor":true,"prefix":"","firstName":"Changxian","middleName":"","lastName":"Zou","suffix":""}],"badges":[],"createdAt":"2025-11-10 14:53:03","currentVersionCode":1,"declarations":"","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8078314/v1","doiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8078314/v1","draftVersion":[],"editorialEvents":[],"editorialNote":"","failedWorkflow":false,"files":[{"id":101529954,"identity":"ff3f20e7-96f6-477f-8cc3-8934f4b7a795","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 19:39:32","extension":"jpg","order_by":1,"title":"Figure 1","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":105218,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFig. 4 \u003c/strong\u003eYemen's major imparts sources and Yemen's major export destination\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture1.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/407ffd03c5bceffbb67b3384.jpg"},{"id":101529965,"identity":"2b30ae8e-a071-4af0-a945-baa41fa3fb9a","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 19:39:36","extension":"jpg","order_by":2,"title":"Figure 2","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":75789,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFig. 7\u003c/strong\u003e Yemen imports from China between 2000 to 2022\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture2.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/844ec03379d55036b40f8d19.jpg"},{"id":101529959,"identity":"7e85c2a2-ab26-49c4-9d11-94c89edd07e9","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 19:39:32","extension":"jpg","order_by":3,"title":"Figure 3","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"figure","size":177273,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFig. 8\u003c/strong\u003e Perception of Yemeni people on China's belt and road initiative\u003c/p\u003e","description":"","filename":"Picture3.jpg","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/5e8c0d19e03bae3220fc37d0.jpg"},{"id":101880525,"identity":"24c8a387-a474-4c04-be8d-9f21c921f75b","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-02-04 15:03:11","extension":"pdf","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"manuscript-pdf","size":2131791,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"manuscript.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/d4448ad3-743a-4c8e-81cf-4f3f45ead206.pdf"},{"id":101529955,"identity":"2df27d62-250e-4e8d-840d-49194b45810c","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 19:39:32","extension":"docx","order_by":0,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":28839,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"Tables.docx","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/88a9c07a3f56e325eb84f566.docx"},{"id":101529957,"identity":"ee72d358-cf3d-4b9c-b9bb-4ac07d56528d","added_by":"auto","created_at":"2026-01-30 19:39:32","extension":"pdf","order_by":1,"title":"","display":"","copyAsset":false,"role":"supplement","size":2107238,"visible":true,"origin":"","legend":"","description":"","filename":"EthicalApprovalYemeniPerceptionsofChinaBRIAnonymized.pdf","url":"https://assets-eu.researchsquare.com/files/rs-8078314/v1/cf02393f22194b6415b49ca3.pdf"}],"financialInterests":"No competing interests reported.","formattedTitle":"Yemeni Perceptions of China's Belt and Road Initiative","fulltext":[{"header":"1 Introduction","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe launch of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in March 2015, signaled by two pivotal meetings in Beijing attended by representatives from 31 provincial-level regions, marked the emergence of a transformative global policy framework. These high-level discussions underscored the BRI\u0026rsquo;s centrality to China\u0026rsquo;s foreign policy agenda for that year, reflecting a notable shift in China\u0026rsquo;s international strategy. Departing from the earlier doctrine of \u003cem\u003etao guang yang hui\u003c/em\u003e\u0026mdash;which advocated for maintaining a low profile and biding one\u0026rsquo;s time\u0026mdash;China has increasingly prioritized diplomatic engagement and economic integration as principal means of advancing its strategic interests. Officially termed the \u0026ldquo;Silk Road Economic Belt\u0026rdquo; and the \u0026ldquo;21st Century Maritime Silk Road\u0026rdquo; by the Chinese government, the BRI seeks to foster financial integration, enhance transportation and logistical connectivity, facilitate trade, and promote policy coordination among more than 65 countries across Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and Europe. This ambitious initiative encompasses regions that collectively possess approximately 75% of the world\u0026rsquo;s energy reserves and generate 55% of global economic output, thereby holding far-reaching implications for infrastructure investment, trade, tourism, and regional development.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn1\" id=\"#FNLinkFn1\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is poised to exert a significant influence across the Middle East, though the degree of benefit is expected to vary among countries in the region. Yemen, despite enduring persistent challenges such as armed conflict, economic instability, and acute security threats, stands to gain from Chinese investment\u0026mdash;particularly in the realm of infrastructure development, including power generation and port facilities.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn2\" id=\"#FNLinkFn2\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Chinese commitments in Yemen have included agreements to construct power plants and expand major cargo ports, with projects such as the Aden Container Terminal expansion valued at over \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e500\u0026nbsp;million and intended to increase the country\u0026rsquo;s logistical capacity.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn3\" id=\"#FNLinkFn3\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Although the escalation of conflict has delayed the implementation of several projects and prompted the withdrawal of Chinese personnel following security incidents such as the 2019 Battle of Aden, these agreements remain in force and are anticipated to resume once stability is restored.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn4\" id=\"#FNLinkFn4\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e China\u0026rsquo;s ongoing engagement is further underscored by its provision of humanitarian aid and its stated intention to participate in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s postwar reconstruction, reflecting a broader commitment to supporting development and stability in the country through the BRI framework. Nevertheless, persistent security risks, including terrorist threats to critical infrastructure, continue to pose substantial obstacles to the realization of these projects. Despite these setbacks, China\u0026rsquo;s sustained interest signals the potential for the BRI to contribute meaningfully to Yemen\u0026rsquo;s long-term recovery and integration into regional economic networks.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn5\" id=\"#FNLinkFn5\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"2 Theoretical Framework","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study employs liberalism as its principal theoretical lens to examine Yemeni perceptions of China\u0026rsquo;s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Liberal theory in international relations posits that cooperation, mutual benefit, and progress are attainable through economic interdependence, international institutions, and diplomatic engagement.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn6\" id=\"#FNLinkFn6\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Unlike realist perspectives, which emphasize inherent conflict and power-seeking behavior among states, liberalism suggests that actors\u0026mdash;both states and individuals\u0026mdash;are capable of altruism, collaboration, and the pursuit of shared interests. International institutions, according to liberalism, play a pivotal role in managing conflict and fostering enduring peace. Applying this framework to the Yemen-China relationship, the BRI is conceptualized as a form of economic diplomacy that enables smaller, strategically situated states such as Yemen to leverage large-scale international initiatives for developmental gains. China\u0026rsquo;s sustained investment in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s infrastructure, particularly in sectors like energy and logistics, exemplifies liberalism\u0026rsquo;s emphasis on economic interdependence as a catalyst for cooperation and mutual advancement, even in contexts characterized by asymmetrical power relations.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn7\" id=\"#FNLinkFn7\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eEmpirical evidence from the survey conducted in this study robustly supports the liberal paradigm. The results reveal that an overwhelming majority of Yemeni respondents\u0026mdash;over 90%\u0026mdash;hold a positive view of China, with 92.9% explicitly welcoming Chinese investment in Yemen. Furthermore, most participants believe that the BRI will play a significant role in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s future development and will contribute positively to the country\u0026rsquo;s economic growth and infrastructure. These findings align with liberal theory\u0026rsquo;s core assertion that economic cooperation and interdependence foster positive perceptions and mutually beneficial relationships between states, regardless of disparities in power and resources. However, the data also illuminate critical complexities that temper the optimism of liberal theory. While support for the BRI is widespread, a substantial proportion of respondents\u0026rsquo; express concerns about Yemen\u0026rsquo;s potential economic dependency on China and the attendant risks to national sovereignty. Many participants indicated that they are \u0026ldquo;very concerned\u0026rdquo; about the possibility of debt or overreliance on foreign capital. This ambivalence underscores the necessity of a nuanced application of liberalism\u0026mdash;one that acknowledges the institutional and structural asymmetries inherent in such partnerships and the potential for dependency to undermine long-term strategic autonomy. Additionally, it is important to recognize the limitations of the survey sample, which is skewed towards younger and more highly educated Yemenis. This demographic profile may not fully capture the diversity of perspectives present in the broader Yemeni population, and thus, the generalizability of the findings should be approached with caution. Future research should endeavor to include a more representative cross-section of Yemeni society to validate and extend these insights. In summary, the Yemeni case illustrates both the explanatory power and the limitations of liberal theory. While the BRI is largely perceived as a vehicle for mutual benefit and partnership\u0026mdash;consistent with liberal expectations\u0026mdash;there remain salient concerns about dependency and sovereignty that complicate the narrative of unmitigated cooperation. This study thus contributes to the broader literature by demonstrating how liberal mechanisms operate in practice, while also highlighting the enduring relevance of power dynamics and institutional constraints in shaping international economic relations.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"3 Data Analysis \u0026 Discussion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThe Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) was employed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the collected data and to address the research objectives. Following the coding and systematic entry of the data, a series of statistical procedures were performed. To ensure consistency and facilitate meaningful comparisons across the study sample, survey items originally measured on varying scales (including four-point, three-point, and two-point formats) were standardized to a unified five-point Likert scale. This standardization enabled the alignment of responses and enhanced the comparability of results across different variables. The parameters of the five-point scale, including its minimum and maximum values, were clearly defined for each research dimension to maintain analytical rigor and interpretive clarity.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec4\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.1 First, the stability of the scale\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAs presented in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab1\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e1\u003c/span\u003e, the reliability of the scale was evaluated using Cronbach\u0026rsquo;s Alpha, which produced a coefficient of 0.886 for the questionnaire items. This result reflects a high degree of internal consistency, as the reliability score of 88.6% substantially exceeds the commonly accepted threshold of 0.70. Such a value indicates that the instrument demonstrates strong reliability for measuring the constructs of interest within this study.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab1\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 1\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFor Cronbach's Alpha test\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"2\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCronbach Value of coefficient\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003estatement\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.886\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eQuestionnaire paragraphs\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec5\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e3.2 Study sample characteristics by type Participants' information\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab2\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 2\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDemographic information\u0026rsquo;s of survey participants\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eGender\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eMale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eFemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTotal\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e329 (78.5%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e90 (21.5%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAge\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e18\u0026ndash;24y\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e25\u0026ndash;34y\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e35\u0026ndash;44y\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e45\u0026ndash;60y\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003e61\u0026ndash;80y\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e77 (24%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e229 (54.7%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e81 (19.3%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e28 (6.6%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4 (0.95)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEducation\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eHigh School\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eUndergraduate\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMaster\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePh.D.\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003ePostdoctoral\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e37 (8.8%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e200 (47.7%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e113 (27%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e69 (16.5%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4 (0.9%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\" morerows=\"1\" rowspan=\"2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eGeographical Area\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWest\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eNorth\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eSouth\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eMiddle\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eEast\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eTotal\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e117 (27.9%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e195 (46.7%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e31 (7.5%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e52 (12.41%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e24 (5.7%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e419 (100%)\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eVariable: n (%).\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eUndergraduate: Bachelor Degree.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003ePh.D.: Doctoral Degree.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe demographic profile of the study\u0026rsquo;s participants reveals several important trends relevant to the interpretation and generalizability of the findings. The sample is predominantly male and is composed mainly of individuals in the 25\u0026ndash;34 age group, followed by those aged 35\u0026ndash;44 and 18\u0026ndash;24. Together, these age categories constitute the vast majority of respondents, indicating that the perspectives captured are largely those of young and middle-aged adults. In terms of educational attainment, the sample is heavily weighted toward individuals with higher education. Nearly half of the participants hold undergraduate degrees, with a substantial proportion possessing master\u0026rsquo;s and doctoral qualifications. By contrast, respondents with only secondary or high school education represent a much smaller segment of the sample. This pronounced skew toward higher educational backgrounds suggests that the results may disproportionately reflect the views of a more educated demographic, potentially limiting the applicability of the findings to the broader Yemeni population. While the sample size is sufficiently large to support robust statistical analysis, the overrepresentation of highly educated and younger respondents must be acknowledged as a limitation. As a result, the findings offer valuable insights into the perceptions of Yemen\u0026rsquo;s educated urban population but should be interpreted with caution when making inferences about less-educated or older segments of society. Future research would benefit from a more balanced sampling strategy to enhance representativeness and external validity, thereby providing a more comprehensive understanding of public attitudes toward China\u0026rsquo;s Belt and Road Initiative in Yemen.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e"},{"header":"4 Establishing a Strategic Partnership between Yemen and China","content":"\u003cp\u003eChina regards global peace as indispensable for the realization of its major international initiatives, most notably the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The BRI is designed to open new markets and secure global supply chains, thereby promoting sustained economic growth and social stability within China.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn8\" id=\"#FNLinkFn8\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e As Robert S. Ross has observed, peace and prosperity are inextricably linked, particularly in regions marked by great power competition.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn9\" id=\"#FNLinkFn9\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Over the past three decades, China\u0026rsquo;s rapid economic expansion has been driven by significant government investment and technological innovation, which have reduced transaction costs and facilitated broader market access. In 2013, President Xi Jinping introduced the \u0026ldquo;Silk Road Economic Belt\u0026rdquo; and the \u0026ldquo;21st Century Maritime Silk Road,\u0026rdquo; collectively known as the BRI.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn10\" id=\"#FNLinkFn10\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e This initiative seeks to address domestic economic challenges, enhance regional connectivity, and extend China\u0026rsquo;s influence through large-scale infrastructure development.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn11\" id=\"#FNLinkFn11\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e The BRI encompasses two principal routes: the Silk Road Economic Belt, which traverses Central Asia to reach Europe, and the Maritime Silk Road, which links Asia to Europe via sea, with key stops in Southeast Asia, South Asia, and Africa4. Through these corridors, the BRI aims not only to foster economic integration but also to serve as a catalyst for peace and stability by strengthening interdependence among participating countries.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn12\" id=\"#FNLinkFn12\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe historical relationship between China and Yemen extends over two millennia, originating from the ancient Silk Road, which facilitated robust trade and cultural exchanges between Arab and Chinese civilizations.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn13\" id=\"#FNLinkFn13\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Yemen\u0026rsquo;s strategic significance is rooted in its unique geographic position, serving as a vital bridge connecting Asia, Africa, the Indian Ocean, and the Mediterranean. Bilateral engagement has been underpinned by shared economic interests and Yemen\u0026rsquo;s pivotal location. However, several challenges complicate the advancement of China-Yemen relations. Chief among these is China\u0026rsquo;s prioritization of economic and energy partnerships with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states over Yemen, largely due to the GCC\u0026rsquo;s greater economic weight and urgency in China\u0026rsquo;s strategic calculus.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn14\" id=\"#FNLinkFn14\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn15\" id=\"#FNLinkFn15\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Historically, Yemen has been integrated into China\u0026rsquo;s broader Gulf policy, with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) taking precedence, reflecting Beijing\u0026rsquo;s alignment with its core economic objectives in the region.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn16\" id=\"#FNLinkFn16\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e In recent years, China has shifted from pursuing an independent Yemen policy to cautiously aligning with Riyadh\u0026rsquo;s approach, a move that some observers interpret as tacit support for Yemen\u0026rsquo;s adversaries. This realignment has the potential to strain bilateral relations, as encapsulated by the Yemeni proverb, \u0026ldquo;Nevertheless, the enduring historical ties and longstanding cooperation between China and Yemen continue to foster positive perceptions of China among the Yemeni populace, as evidenced by consistently favorable public opinion and support for Chinese investment in Yemen.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe partnership between China and Yemen under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) encompasses four principal domains: policy coordination, connectivity, trade and investment, and energy cooperation. However, both countries approach and interpret the BRI framework through the lens of their respective national interests and international positions, resulting in divergent perspectives on the realization of the New Silk Road\u0026rsquo;s vision.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn17\" id=\"#FNLinkFn17\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Historically, economic ties between Yemen and China were formalized with a trade agreement in January 1958, facilitating the export of Yemeni products such as milk, cotton, tobacco, and sesame, and the import of Chinese goods including iron, vehicles, machinery, construction tools, chemicals, silk, and agricultural items.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn18\" id=\"#FNLinkFn18\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Despite these agreements, early efforts to deepen trade relations faced significant obstacles. Chinese trade delegations encountered challenges related to the incomplete infrastructure of Hodeidah port and the absence of adequate banking facilities, which impeded the importation of goods and the execution of financial transactions. These logistical and financial difficulties were noted as early as 1959, with Chinese representatives expressing frustration over delays and losses incurred during cargo unloading at Hodeidah, leading to substantial financial setbacks along traditional trade routes. This issue was raised as early as July 1959 by Chinese representatives in Taiz, who expressed frustration over the time lost and equipment damage during unloading at the Hodeidah port, resulting in significant financial losses along traditional trade routes. \u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn19\" id=\"#FNLinkFn19\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Furthermore, competition between China and the Soviet Union intensified during this period, with both powers seeking to expand their influence in Yemen by offering credit to Yemeni merchants and establishing agency businesses in major cities such as Sana'a, Ibb, Zabid, Hodeidah, and Taiz.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn20\" id=\"#FNLinkFn20\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Notably, China\u0026rsquo;s economic engagement included the construction of key infrastructure, such as the Sana\u0026rsquo;a Textile Factory and the Sana\u0026rsquo;a-Hodeidah highway, projects that not only enhanced Yemen\u0026rsquo;s industrial capacity but also symbolized the depth of bilateral cooperation.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn21\" id=\"#FNLinkFn21\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Despite these historical foundations, the trajectory of China-Yemen economic relations has been shaped by evolving geopolitical dynamics, regional competition, and Yemen\u0026rsquo;s persistent internal challenges. The ongoing civil conflict and instability have constrained the full realization of BRI projects and limited the expansion of bilateral trade and investment in recent years37. Nevertheless, China\u0026rsquo;s sustained interest in Yemen, particularly in infrastructure and energy sectors, underscores the potential for renewed collaboration and mutual benefit as conditions stabilize and the BRI continues to evolve as a cornerstone of China\u0026rsquo;s foreign policy in the Middle East.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn22\" id=\"#FNLinkFn22\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eYemen\u0026rsquo;s imports predominantly consist of foodstuffs, chemicals, and machinery, while its exports include commodities such as gold and various food products destined for neighboring countries. In 2019, Yemen imported goods valued at approximately \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e4.72\u0026nbsp;billion, compared to exports of around \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e23.8\u0026nbsp;million, reflecting a significant trade deficit. Yemen maintains trade relations with over 130 countries globally; however, trade with some partners, notably Bahrain, has sharply declined since the outbreak of civil war in 2015, now representing only a fraction of former volumes.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn23\" id=\"#FNLinkFn23\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Despite these challenges, Yemen has seen gradual improvements in its traditional cooperative ties, signaling potential for renewed economic engagement and regional integration. In May 2016, Deputy Minister Zhai Jun led a Chinese delegation to Riyadh for the third ministerial meeting of the 'Friends of Yemen Group,' meeting Yemen\u0026rsquo;s Foreign Minister Khaled Al-Yamani. Concurrently, Al-Yamani attended the fifth ministerial meeting of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum in Tunis, underscoring ongoing diplomatic engagement.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn24\" id=\"#FNLinkFn24\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e According to Chinese customs data, Yemen\u0026rsquo;s exports to China have primarily comprised fossil fuels, primary products, and coffee beans, with 92% of Yemen\u0026rsquo;s oil exports directed to China in 2012. Yemen imports electromechanical equipment, machinery, electrical appliances, and clothing from China; in 2012, electromechanical equipment accounted for 42.8% of Yemen\u0026rsquo;s imports from China, machinery 25.6%, and electrical appliances 14.5%. Bilateral trade volume generally increased until 2013 but sharply declined following Yemen\u0026rsquo;s political turmoil beginning in 2014 and the full-scale civil war in 2015. This instability disrupted trade and caused Yemen to miss opportunities offered by China as an international provider of public goods, such as membership in the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), which Yemen has yet to join. Recent data indicate that China remains a key import partner, accounting for roughly 22\u0026ndash;30% of Yemen\u0026rsquo;s imports, including machinery, electronics, and textiles, while Yemen\u0026rsquo;s exports to China have significantly decreased in value over recent years. Despite ongoing conflict and economic fragmentation, prospects for Yemen\u0026rsquo;s recovery and enhanced bilateral cooperation hinge on political stabilization and renewed investment.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eSince 2015, bilateral trade between China and Yemen has declined due to ongoing violence in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s central oil-producing regions, which has severely constrained the country\u0026rsquo;s oil exports.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn25\" id=\"#FNLinkFn25\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Trade began to recover in 2016, with total two-way trade reaching \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e2.56\u0026nbsp;billion in 2018, less than half of the 2012 level. From January to June 2019, China exported goods worth \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e870\u0026nbsp;million to Yemen and imported \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e260\u0026nbsp;million, totaling \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e1.13\u0026nbsp;billion in trade. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s crude oil exports to China decreased by 23.6% to 1.04\u0026nbsp;million tons during this period. The structure of imports and exports between the two countries has remained largely unchanged: China imports energy and a small quantity of bulk agricultural products such as coffee from Yemen, while exporting textiles, mechanical and electrical goods, metals, grains, and oil products. Since 2017, Chinese companies including Huawei, ZTE, and Xiaomi have established offices in Yemen and partnered with the country\u0026rsquo;s two largest telecommunications providers, SabaFon and Spacetel (YOU), offering base station installation services and marketing smartphones. Although Yemen\u0026rsquo;s imports from China grew in 2018, economic ties between the two countries remain at a low point. However, with China\u0026rsquo;s Belt and Road Initiative and Yemen\u0026rsquo;s prospects for political and economic recovery, bilateral cooperation is expected to improve in the future. Analysis of trade data over the past eight years shows that Yemen\u0026rsquo;s exports to China have been negatively affected and reduced due to the ongoing civil war.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eChina\u0026rsquo;s strategic initiative underscores the importance of coordinated investment and trade among nations, with particular emphasis on its relationship with Yemen. Beijing perceives significant economic benefits in achieving lasting peace and ending military conflicts in Yemen, as this would secure access to the strategically vital Bab-el-Mandeb Strait. The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), involving over 72 countries, spans six economic corridors and covers industries that serve approximately two-thirds of the global population, 40% of the world\u0026rsquo;s GDP, and an estimated 75% of known energy reserves.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn26\" id=\"#FNLinkFn26\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e However, China\u0026rsquo;s interests in Yemen face considerable challenges due to the ongoing civil war. According to the Chinese Ministry of Commerce, China\u0026rsquo;s investments in Yemen remain modest, comprising 14 enterprises and approximately 460 personnel engaged in sectors such as oil extraction, telecommunications, construction, road infrastructure, and fisheries. Despite the relatively small scale of investment, China continues to strengthen its economic ties with Yemen. Diplomatically, China supports Yemen\u0026rsquo;s internationally recognized government, emphasizing respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity. Beijing advocates for a peaceful resolution to the conflict through internal dialogue among Yemeni parties and urges all sides to refrain from violence.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn27\" id=\"#FNLinkFn27\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Unlike other major powers involved in regional confrontations, China maintains a neutral stance, engaging with all factions in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s conflict. This approach grants China a strategic advantage in the region, which it can leverage to further develop bilateral relations with Yemen.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe potential to enhance bilateral trade between Yemen and China spans several key sectors, beginning with energy resources. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s abundant oil and natural gas reserves align with China\u0026rsquo;s status as a major importer, creating opportunities for increased trade in both conventional and renewable energy, including wind and solar power. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s rich agricultural heritage offers high-quality products such as coffee, honey, and fruits that are currently underrepresented in the Chinese market but could meet growing demand driven by China\u0026rsquo;s expanding middle class. Additionally, Yemen\u0026rsquo;s modest manufacturing sector\u0026mdash;particularly textiles, leather goods, and handicrafts\u0026mdash;holds growth potential, where China\u0026rsquo;s industrial capacity could support development. The tourism sector also presents opportunities given Yemen\u0026rsquo;s historical sites and cultural richness, although ongoing instability may hinder its post-war growth. Investment is critical for advancing bilateral relations, with China well-positioned to invest in Yemen\u0026rsquo;s infrastructure, energy, and industrial sectors. Strengthening cultural ties remains equally important, fostering mutual trust and laying the foundation for sustainable cooperation.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn28\" id=\"#FNLinkFn28\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Engaging Yemen\u0026rsquo;s major tribes, as practiced by Saudi Arabia, is advisable given their significant societal role. Finally, prioritizing humanitarian efforts is essential; establishing a Chinese foundation in Yemen to deliver direct aid could complement existing international assistance and enhance China\u0026rsquo;s positive presence in the country.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eExporting goods internationally is vital for driving economic growth in Yemen, generating income that can be invested in critical areas such as infrastructure development and education. Additionally, exports create employment opportunities across multiple sectors, including production, logistics, and sales. Engaging in international markets also encourages domestic companies to innovate and improve product quality to meet global standards, fostering technological advancement. Diversifying the economy through exports is a key strategy for Yemen, as expanding into new markets and developing emerging sectors can significantly contribute to economic resilience. Historically, Yemen has been an important export partner for China. Trade between the two countries flourished from 2000 to 2015; however, the outbreak of conflict in Yemen in 2015 caused a sharp decline in Yemeni exports to China, adversely affecting Yemen\u0026rsquo;s economy. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s diverse climate and abundant natural resources\u0026mdash;including oil, fish, rock salt, marble, and minerals such as coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper\u0026mdash;underpin its export potential.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn29\" id=\"#FNLinkFn29\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Fertile soils in western Yemen also support agricultural production. China\u0026rsquo;s imports from Yemen constitute a notable share of Yemen\u0026rsquo;s total exports, indicating room for growth that could bolster Yemen\u0026rsquo;s development and strengthen bilateral relations. Coffee, in particular, stands out as a significant commodity due to its global demand and cultural heritage, ranking second only to crude oil among traded Yemeni products.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn30\" id=\"#FNLinkFn30\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eIn December 2022, the global export volume of coffee declined to 10.88\u0026nbsp;million bags from 11.89\u0026nbsp;million bags in December 2021. Despite this overall decrease, Yemeni Mocha coffee\u0026mdash;renowned for its distinctive and refined flavor\u0026mdash;has maintained its unique status in the global market. Named after the historic port city of Mocha in Taiz\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn31\" id=\"#FNLinkFn31\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Yemen, this coffee variety remains highly sought after. Recent analyses of Yemeni green coffee samples have demonstrated superior quality across various chemical components, underscoring its competitiveness in both quality and price.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn32\" id=\"#FNLinkFn32\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Given these attributes, increasing the import share of Yemeni coffee could benefit China by meeting the growing demand of its large and expanding consumer market. Moreover, scientific evaluations confirm that Yemeni seafood meets international standards and complies with food safety regulations, making it suitable for both domestic consumption and export. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s extensive marine resources stretch from the Arabian Sea bordering Oman to the Red Sea adjacent to Saudi Arabia. With over 182 islands, including notable ones such as Socotra and Abd al Kuri, Yemen\u0026rsquo;s fisheries sector represents a vital source of renewable natural resources and a significant contributor to national income.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn33\" id=\"#FNLinkFn33\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Prior to the conflict, Yemen produced approximately 200,000 tons of fish and marine products annually, with exports accounting for 30% to 50% of this volume and generating around \u003cspan\u003e$\u003c/span\u003e300\u0026nbsp;million in revenue. Yemen\u0026rsquo;s coastal waters are home to diverse fish species\u0026mdash;including tuna, mackerel, sardines, cod, grouper, shrimp, and others\u0026mdash;supporting a fishing community of roughly 500,000 individuals and providing sustenance for approximately 1.7\u0026nbsp;million people each year. Despite this evident potential, Yemeni fish products have yet to enter the Chinese market. Given the robustness and scale of China\u0026rsquo;s seafood market, Yemeni fisheries are well-positioned to find a lucrative niche once market access is established.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"5 China’s Belt and Road Initiative Partnership Expectations","content":"\u003cp\u003eTo achieve the study's objectives and analyze the data collected from a broad spectrum of Yemenis regarding their understanding of the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative, various appropriate statistical methods were employed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS). The researcher aimed to disseminate the research across multiple platforms and through various channels to maximize participant engagement. The questionnaire for this study was distributed to a total of 424 individuals, comprising 333 males and 91 females.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe questionnaire aimed to ascertain several key points, including:\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003col\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eAssessing the level of knowledge among Yemeni people regarding the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eUnderstanding Yemeni perspectives on China as a country and gauging their receptiveness towards Chinese investments in Yemen.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eEvaluating Yemeni sentiments towards China and the Belt and Road Initiative's potential to facilitate comprehensive development in Yemen post-war and during the reconstruction phase.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eExamining Yemeni citizens' perceptions regarding the potential impact of Belt and Road Initiative projects on economic development and infrastructure improvement in Yemen in the future.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/span\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003cli\u003e \u003cp\u003eExploring Yemenis' aspirations for fostering bilateral relations between the two countries under the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/li\u003e \u003c/span\u003e \u003c/ol\u003e \u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"6 The Belt and Road Initiative: Economic and Political Discussion","content":" \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e6.1 If China's \"Belt and Road\" initiative positively impacts Yemen's development, will China support Yemen's participation in the future\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eWith 390 members, 92.2% support China's initiative. However, regarding Yemen's benefits from joining the Belt and Road Initiative, the percentage is lower, as 307 (72.6%) believe that Yemen will benefit from joining China's initiative. Yemenis were asked about the importance of Yemen's initiative to China, and 336 (79.4%) thought it was important/significant. The output was perceived positively, serving as motivation for both parties and leveraging the social acceptance of the initiative.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec8\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e6.2 Do you think the Belt and Road Initiative is a train that Yemen should take\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e52.8% of the respondents (253 people) said that China's initiative is the only way for Yemen to move towards development and a better future. Some people (with an average share of 29%) believe that the Belt and Road Initiative could be a good thing and could benefit Yemen. On the other hand, a tiny proportion of 3.3% of participants believe the opposite.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec9\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e6.3 Research sample (Yemenis) views on China's development:\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab3\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 4\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYemeni's perception of China's development\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCompare\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003estandard deviation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003everbal appreciation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esignificance level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatistical regulations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat do you think of China's development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.33\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.975\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/Very much agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat are your views on China's economic development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.832\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/Very much agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat do you think of China's political developments\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.63\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.214\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat do you think of China's rapid development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.53\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.856\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/Very much agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat do you think of the quality of China's development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.08\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.035\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003egrand mean axis\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.22\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.77\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eExcellent/Very much agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe analysis results show that Yemeni citizens hold a positive view of China's development, especially in economic terms, with an average response value of 4.56 and a standard deviation of 0.832. The indicated level of the single sample test (v) suggests consistency with the hypothesized medium difference (3), where the indicated level is equivalent to 0.000, indicating a significant, positive, and robust difference. Researchers believe China has made significant progress in various fields and has become an essential global force. They also believe that China's development speed and quality are very high. The average answer in this paragraph is 4.53, the standard deviation is minimal, 0.856, and the indicative test level of a single sample is equal to 0.000, indicating a difference from the assumed mean. (3) Positive, when the verbal estimate describing the views of the study sample is (very high/strongly agree), the sample study, therefore, believes that it has benefited from the \"Belt and Road\" strategy with other countries, indicating that they appreciate China's efforts in recent years and achievements. They believe in China's ability to achieve sustainable and comprehensive progress. Some factors may contribute to this belief, such as China's trade and investment exchanges with Yemen, which help create jobs, increase income, and improve the living standards of the Yemeni people. In 2022, the merchandise trade volume between the two countries will reach 3.6\u0026nbsp;billion USD, a year-on-year increase of 9.4% [1].\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn34\" id=\"#FNLinkFn34\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Chinese companies have also invested in energy, petrochemicals, construction, and telecommunications in Yemen.\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn35\" id=\"#FNLinkFn35\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e\u003ca class=\"FNLink\" href=\"#Fn36\" id=\"#FNLinkFn36\"\u003e\u003c/a\u003e Regarding politics, Yemeni citizens have a slightly lower positive view of China's development, with a mean response of 3.63 and a standard deviation of 1.214. However, it is still high, as D is statistically significant in the single sample test results, with a p-value of 0.000, it is considered a high estimate (high/high). which may be due to different systems and cultures between China and Arab countries, or hot issues affecting their common interests.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003e6.4 The impact of the \"One Belt, One Road\" initiative and the Yemeni people's expectations regarding Yemen-China relations\u003c/b\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cb\u003eAnswers to research questions: First\u003c/b\u003e: Sample research trends between Yemen and China on the Belt and Road Initiative\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eForm 8. represents the average study sample answer and the one-sample V test mean difference 3.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab4\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 8\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYemeni perceptions on belt and road initiative\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"6\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eCompare\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003estandard deviation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003everbal appreciation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esignificance level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatistical regulations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo you think the \"One Belt, One Road\" initiative will benefit Yemen's future development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.67\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.887\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003epositive influence/Very much agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo you think \"One Belt, One Road \" initiative will have a positive impact on Yemen's future political stability\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.0082\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.09846\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emaybe/agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo you think \"One Belt, One Road \" initiative will help Yemen's future infrastructure development\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.42\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.107\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eIf the Belt and Road Initiative has positively impacted the development of Yemen, do you support its implementation in Yemen\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.83\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.619\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eYemen joins \"One Belt, One Road. \"Is it suitable for us Yemenis\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.43\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.954\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo you think the Belt and Road Initiative will help the overall development of Yemen\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.19\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.137\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eFrom your perspective, do you think there any benefits China will gain from the \u0026ldquo;One Belt, One Road \" initiative\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.5484\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.88440\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDo you think China's growing influence is a good thing for Yemen\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.98\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.271\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emaybe/agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eCan Yemen learn from China's development experience\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.7393\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.70803\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eDoes China think the \"One Belt, One Road \"Initiative will create jobs and an investment environment in Yemen\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.62\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.857\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eWhat do you think of China's \u0026ldquo;Belt and Road\u0026rdquo; Initiative is foreign policy better than that of other great powers\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.51\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.319\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003egrand mean axis\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.3566\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.59632\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eYes/strongly agree\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eDifference exists\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results in Table\u0026nbsp;\u003cspan refid=\"Tab4\" class=\"InternalRef\"\u003e8\u003c/span\u003e show that the sample studies tend to be strongly consistent with all passages measuring their trend toward the B.R.I. Outputs show that they regard the Belt and Road Initiative as an opportunity to develop cooperation with China. The lowest paragraph also had a positive average: \"Can China play a key role in resolving the crisis in Yemen\" The average answer given was 3.94, i.e., the sample studies were consistent with this paragraph, but not firmly, that the Belt and Road Initiative could have a positive impact on Yemen's Future political stability and normative deviation have a positive effect: 1.314, that is, there is an average difference in the opinion of this paragraph among the sample studies, some are optimistic, and some are pessimistic, so this paper get a verbal endorsement: \"Maybe/Agree,\" which means that the sample study moderately supports this paragraph, and believes that the \"One Belt, One Road\" initiative may have a positive impact on Yemen's future political stability. First, the \"One Belt, One Road\" initiative is a step toward development and political stability in Yemen. Considering its importance, the author found it to be 0. 000, which means a significant difference between the mean and the specific value (3), indicating that the assumption that the study sample is consistent with this paragraph is correct. Hence, statistical judgment: There is a difference, which means that the sample study has a clear positive trend for this period, and this trend is not accidental. It can be seen that Chinese initiatives have garnered a generally favorable perception among the Yemeni public, welcomes Chinese investment in Yemen, and hopes that relations between the two countries will further improve. China\u0026rsquo;s positive standing indicates that Yemenis view it as a strategic partner, recognize its role in the Belt and Road Initiative, acknowledge the benefits China derives from the initiative, and understand its objectives in countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. Responses demonstrate an understanding of China's interests and objectives in the Belt and Road initiative.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv id=\"Sec10\" class=\"Section2\"\u003e \u003ch2\u003e6.5 Setting for differences based on demographic variables\u003c/h2\u003e \u003c/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e1- Test differences based on type\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab5\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 9\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eTest showing differences by type\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003etype\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eaverage\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003estandard deviation\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eValue V\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esignificance level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eStatistical regulations\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAxis: A sample study of China-Yemen \"Belt and Road\" development trends\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.41\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.56\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.132\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBy calculating the average, male and female responses were different. Both men and women believe the Belt and Road Initiative between Yemen and China has positively impacted both countries. Still, women are more optimistic about the Yemen-China Road Initiative.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003efemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.13\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.64\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eaxis: China Development Research Sample\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003emale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.31\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.73\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4.17\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.000\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe difference between male and female responses and calculated averages suggests that both men and women believe that the Belt and Road Initiative between Yemen and China will positively impact both countries. Still, this time, men appear to be more confident that the Chinese government is doing a real job in achieving China's goals and development performance.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003efemale\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e3.90\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.84\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003e2- Age difference test\u003c/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"gridtable\"\u003e\u003ctable float=\"Yes\" id=\"Tab6\" border=\"1\"\u003e \u003ccaption language=\"En\"\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionNumber\"\u003eTable 10\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv class=\"CaptionContent\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eshowing age difference test\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/div\u003e \u003c/caption\u003e \u003ccolgroup cols=\"7\"\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c1\" colnum=\"1\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"left\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c2\" colnum=\"2\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c3\" colnum=\"3\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c4\" colnum=\"4\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c5\" colnum=\"5\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c6\" colnum=\"6\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cdiv align=\"char\" char=\".\" class=\"colspec\" colname=\"c7\" colnum=\"7\"\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003cthead\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esum of square\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003efree score\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eordinary box\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eValue q\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003cth align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003esignificance level\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/th\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/thead\u003e \u003ctbody\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eAxis: Yemen-China One Belt, One Road Sample Research Trends for Initiatives\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBetween groups\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e2.775\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.694\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.969\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.098\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ewithin the group\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e145.862\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e414\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.352\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003etotal\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e148.637\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e418\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e\u003cb\u003eaxis: China Development Research Sample\u003c/b\u003e\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003eBetween groups\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e1.366\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e4\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.341\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.567\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.687\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003ewithin the group\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e249.366\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e414\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e0.602\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003ctr\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c1\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c2\"\u003e \u003cp\u003etotal\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c3\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e250.732\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"char\" char=\".\" colname=\"c4\"\u003e \u003cp\u003e418\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c5\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c6\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003ctd align=\"left\" colname=\"c7\"\u003e\u0026nbsp;\u003c/td\u003e \u003c/tr\u003e \u003c/tbody\u003e \u003c/colgroup\u003e \u003c/table\u003e\u003c/div\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe results in Table\u0026nbsp;(10) show no age difference. Therefore, research samples of different age groups tend to agree on the \"Ye Zhong Belt\" initiative and China's development. Thus, all sample members across various age groups viewed initiatives from both Yemen and China positively, and age did not influence their opinion.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"7 Conclusion","content":"\u003cp\u003eThis study critically examines the impact of China\u0026rsquo;s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) on Yemen, a country often marginalized in broader geopolitical discourse despite its strategic significance in the Arabian Peninsula. By focusing on Yemen\u0026rsquo;s role within the BRI framework, this research challenges prevailing assumptions about the nation\u0026rsquo;s geopolitical relevance and highlights the complex interplay between international investment and local socio-economic dynamics. The analysis reveals a nuanced sentiment among the Yemeni population toward China\u0026rsquo;s involvement\u0026mdash;marked by cautious optimism about economic opportunities driven primarily by trade and investment, alongside skepticism regarding the long-term sustainability of these prospects amid Yemen\u0026rsquo;s ongoing political instability and fragmented governance. Beyond potential economic gains, this study explores the socio-political challenges Yemen faces in leveraging foreign initiatives to its advantage. Employing a mixed-methods approach, it integrates historical context, empirical data, and statistical analysis to provide a comprehensive understanding of the BRI\u0026rsquo;s influence on Yemen. The research examines Yemen\u0026rsquo;s infrastructural needs, China\u0026rsquo;s strategic interests, and the practical complexities of implementing large-scale international projects in a conflict-affected state. It further assesses the risks and benefits of this ambitious undertaking, emphasizing the gap between political rhetoric and the realities of economic integration. In highlighting Yemen\u0026rsquo;s position within the BRI, this study underscores the necessity for more context-sensitive research that addresses the unique socio-political and economic conditions of fragile states. It advocates for a critical, tailored approach to foreign investment that prioritizes sustainable development and considers the long-term socio-economic fabric of host countries. By situating Yemen within the broader discourse of global development, this research calls for policymakers and scholars to reconsider how large-scale international initiatives can be designed to maximize benefits for countries at the periphery of global economic power.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"Declarations","content":" \u003cp\u003eThe author declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship and/or publication of this article.\u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eConsent to participate\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eInformed consent to participate in the study was obtained from participants.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e \u003cp\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eConsent to publish\u003c/strong\u003e \u003cp\u003eConsent to publish was obtained from all respondents or legal guardians before using the data.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003eEthics Statement\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eAn ethical approval from Lanzhou University was obtained IRB25082901.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e \u003ch2\u003eCompeting interests\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThe authors declare no competing interests.\u003c/p\u003e \u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eFunding\u003c/h2\u003e \u003cp\u003eThis research received no specific grant from any funding agency in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors. The author received no funding for this research.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAuthor Contribution\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eHAZEM MOJAHED AMMAR wrote the paper, and SAAD BINMUAADH ALKAHTANI helped with proofreading and data collection. Professor Zhou the one who revise the whole paper.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eAcknowledgement\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThanks to Lanzhou University for their support during my research and Sun Yat-sen University as well.\u003c/p\u003e\u003ch2\u003eData Availability\u003c/h2\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe datasets generated during and/or analysed during the current study are available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.\u003c/p\u003e"},{"header":"References","content":"\u003col\u003e\u003cli\u003e Xue, L.J.J.o.C.E.A.S., China's Foreign Policy Decision-Making Mechanism and \u0026ldquo;One Belt One Road\u0026rdquo; Strategy. 2016. 5(2): p. 23\u0026ndash;35.\u003c/div\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Al-Khawlani, H., China Prioritizes Gulf Economic, Oil Relationships; Yemen Can Wait. 2021.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Al-jubari, R.H.H., \u003cem\u003eChina\u0026rsquo;s Initial Understanding of Yemen\u003c/em\u003e. 2024: BELT AND ROAD JOURNALIST NETWORK.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Al-Masdar Newspaper\u0026rsquo;,2020, Al-Masdar Online interviews the Chinese ambassador to Yemen about Corona and the Yemeni issue. 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Shibamoto, Chlorogenic acid and caffeine contents in various commercial brewed coffees. 2008. 106(1): p. 217\u0026ndash;221.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e INCOMES, S.I. and E. TRADE, MOVING YEMEN COFFEE FORWARD. 2005.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Nogaim, Q.A., et al., The chemical composition of Yemeni green coffee. 2013. 1(2): p. 42\u0026ndash;48.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Hatem, M. and G.J.B.N. Carey, Yemen's Saleh Agrees to Step Down in Exchange for Immunity, Official Says. 2011. 23.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e The Belt and Road Initiative: Ten years of shared achievements and responsibilities, in 中国网. 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Stanojević, N., Arab countries along the Maritime Silk Road. The Review of International Affairs, 2020. 71(1177): p. 5\u0026ndash;24.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003cli\u003e\u003cspan\u003e Dr. Wen Se. The Belt and Road Initiative has broad prospects in the Middle East, in 中国网. 2023.\u003c/span\u003e\u003c/li\u003e\u003c/ol\u003e"},{"header":"Tables","content":"\u003cp\u003eTables are available in the Supplementary Files section.\u003c/p\u003e"}],"fulltextSource":"","fullText":"","funders":[],"hasAdminPriorityOnWorkflow":false,"hasManuscriptDocX":true,"hasOptedInToPreprint":true,"hasPassedJournalQc":"","hasAnyPriority":false,"hideJournal":false,"highlight":"","institution":"","isAcceptedByJournal":true,"isAuthorSuppliedPdf":false,"isDeskRejected":"","isHiddenFromSearch":false,"isInQc":false,"isInWorkflow":false,"isPdf":false,"isPdfUpToDate":true,"isWithdrawnOrRetracted":false,"journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-global-society","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Global Society](https://www.springer.com/journal/44282)","snPcode":"44282","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44282/3","title":"Discover Global Society","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true},"keywords":"Yemeni Perception, China’s Belt and Road Initiative, Strategic Partnership, Developmental Strategy","lastPublishedDoi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8078314/v1","lastPublishedDoiUrl":"https://doi.org/10.21203/rs.3.rs-8078314/v1","license":{"name":"CC BY 4.0","url":"https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/"},"manuscriptAbstract":"\u003cp\u003eThe Republic of Yemen positioned at a strategic nexus, plays a pivotal role in this endeavor. This research delves into the intricate dynamics between Yemen's participation in the BRI and the subsequent developments. The study employs a survey to gauge the perceptions of individuals from diverse educational backgrounds regarding China's influence in Yemen. Findings indicate that a significant majority (96.2%) perceive China positively in Yemen, with 92.9% supporting Chinese investments. This research sheds light on the impact of China's initiative on Yemen, a strategically important yet often overlooked nation in global discussions. The uniqueness of this study lies in its holistic approach, amalgamating historical analysis, practical evaluation, and empirical data from questionnaires to provide a multifaceted view of the BRI's implementation in Yemen. It contributes significantly to the field by offering a detailed analysis of a critical international relationship within the framework of an important global development strategy.\u003c/p\u003e","manuscriptTitle":"Yemeni Perceptions of China's Belt and Road Initiative","msid":"","msnumber":"","nonDraftVersions":[{"code":1,"date":"2026-01-30 19:39:27","doi":"10.21203/rs.3.rs-8078314/v1","editorialEvents":[{"type":"communityComments","content":0},{"type":"decision","content":"Revision requested","date":"2026-02-04T04:42:24+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-02-01T04:03:21+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-01-31T00:37:45+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"211463851124312224452901957772260118691","date":"2026-01-30T04:08:05+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorInvitedReview","content":"","date":"2026-01-29T06:16:03+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"169909920195229365824765408611974834047","date":"2026-01-28T08:29:14+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewerAgreed","content":"39313414403751577374224685246484813753","date":"2026-01-28T06:00:08+00:00","index":"hide","fulltext":""},{"type":"reviewersInvited","content":"","date":"2026-01-28T04:01:55+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"editorAssigned","content":"","date":"2026-01-28T03:06:29+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"checksComplete","content":"","date":"2025-12-20T00:38:41+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""},{"type":"submitted","content":"Discover Global Society","date":"2025-12-20T00:32:36+00:00","index":"","fulltext":""}],"status":"published","journal":{"display":true,"email":"[email protected]","identity":"discover-global-society","isNatureJournal":false,"hasQc":true,"allowDirectSubmit":false,"externalIdentity":"","sideBox":"Learn more about [Discover Global Society](https://www.springer.com/journal/44282)","snPcode":"44282","submissionUrl":"https://submission.nature.com/new-submission/44282/3","title":"Discover Global Society","twitterHandle":"","acdcEnabled":true,"dfaEnabled":true,"editorialSystem":"stoa","reportingPortfolio":"Discover Series","inReviewEnabled":true,"inReviewRevisionsEnabled":true}}],"origin":"","ownerIdentity":"e2c568bb-90f1-4e65-8b2d-5a09f1b0da3a","owner":[],"postedDate":"January 30th, 2026","published":true,"recentEditorialEvents":[],"rejectedJournal":[],"revision":"","amendment":"","status":"under-review","subjectAreas":[],"tags":[],"updatedAt":"2026-04-06T08:56:15+00:00","versionOfRecord":[],"versionCreatedAt":"2026-01-30 19:39:27","video":"","vorDoi":"","vorDoiUrl":"","workflowStages":[]},"version":"v1","identity":"rs-8078314","journalConfig":"researchsquare"},"__N_SSP":true},"page":"/article/[identity]/[[...version]]","query":{"redirect":"/article/rs-8078314","identity":"rs-8078314","version":["v1"]},"buildId":"XKTyCvWXoU3ODBz1xrDgd","isFallback":false,"isExperimentalCompile":false,"dynamicIds":[84888],"gssp":true,"scriptLoader":[]}