Former Prince Andrew Tied to $8bn UAE-China Cash-for-Oil Talks

Middle Eastern outlets focus on the reported $8 billion deal as another sign of deepening energy and financial ties between Gulf producers and China. They say Andrew’s involvement is secondary to the broader trend of the UAE and other regional exporters seeking large, upfront cash arrangements with Asian buyers. They expect any fallout from his arrest to be managed so that it does not disrupt long-term oil supply relationships between the UAE and China.

• •Middle Eastern media say the reported $8 billion cash-for-oil talks fit with the UAE’s push to secure long-term Chinese demand.
• •Regional outlets claim Chinese buyers are increasingly willing to provide large cash prepayments in exchange for stable Gulf oil supplies.
• •Some Middle Eastern commentary says Andrew was one of several international figures who helped open doors between UAE and Chinese business circles.
• •Regional reports suggest UAE-China energy cooperation will continue regardless of Andrew’s legal troubles in the UK.
• •Commentators in the region say London’s royal scandal is unlikely to affect Gulf states’ efforts to attract Chinese capital into their energy sectors.