China wrapped up a seventh round of free trade negotiations with the Gulf Cooperation Council Sunday as it looks to invest in infrastructure in the Mideast.

China’s Ministry of Commerce says the government will move to advance the negotiations at this week’s China-Arab Cooperation forum in Doha.

Analysts say the evolving trade relationship between China and the Gulf region is key to regional security. They say that is especially true for investments that go beyond oil into other growth drivers such as manufacturing and agriculture.