Middle East/North Africa
Oman and BP finalise natural gas deal, signalling regional change
The Sultanate’s recent natural gas deal with BP signals greater economic and energy prowess for Oman, and a shift toward independent action rather than cooperation with other Gulf nations. Oman
Tensions rise as OPEC countries look to increase production
OPEC’s internal tensions rise as producers like Iran, Iraq and Libya, after years of production below capacity, look to increase output. Still, those increases will not come online for some
7 spoilers to look for after Saudi migrant labour reforms
After decades of relying on migrant labour for most menial labour positions throughout the economy, the Saudi government is cracking down on illegal migrant workers. However, several problems may jeopardise the positive
Asia-Gulf trade is rebuilding the Silk Road
Trade relations between East Asia and the Gulf are improving as the Silk Road is rebuilt, and comparative advantages become ready to be reaped. Yet, political and cultural differences make
Turkey tightens Kurdistan ties to Baghdad’s chagrin
Kurdistan, the oil-rich semi-autonomous region in northern Iraq, will begin selling oil to Turkey despite vocal objections by the Iraqi government over the contracts’ legitimacy. Turkish-Iraqi relations have suffered as
Iran’s oil exports still restricted, but prices may drop
US and EU sanctions on Iranian oil exports will remain intact for the next 6 months, but the psychological impact of the Geneva deal might in fact lower oil prices.
Op-Ed: Iran is driving the bus, so why is the West celebrating?
Western enthusiasm for Iran deal, sees Tehran hold the upper hand and steer discussions, calling into question the West’s celebrations over the talks. Supreme Iranian leader Khamenei spent much of
Algeria’s President Bouteflika is here to stay
Despite poor health, Algerian President Bouteflika has announced his candidacy for next year’s presidential election, potentially his third term in office. Economic conditions and regional stability are thus unlikely to
Jordan’s economy weathers the storm of Syrian refugees
Handling the influx of Syrian refugees into Jordan requires a significant commitment of resources. Will the demands of this situation ultimately prove detrimental? Or will they in fact stimulate the
Palestine’s private sector growth plan depends on politics
Private sector-led growth and decreased Israeli restrictions on trade are needed to boost Palestine’s stagnant economy. The Palestinian Economic Initiative represents a potential solution, but its success depends upon political
