Natural resources and energy
Risk of US-China showdown hangs over South China Sea
While all eyes are on North Korea, the shadow of a more traditional big-power conflict between the United States and China hangs over the South China Sea.
Special Report: Grasberg mine talks signal Indonesia’s strengthening resolve
Despite issues concerning the Indonesian government’s divestment plans for Papua’s Grasberg mine, there are growing signs that Indonesia will get its way.
Russia’s growing influence in Venezuela is part of a wider strategy
Russia’s investments in Venezuela show that the Kremlin stands ready to make strategic gains from America’s growing insularity.
How the US shale revolution could come to a grinding halt
The US shale revolution has upended global oil markets and reshaped how OPEC does business. But Wall Street has different ideas for the revolution that could raise oil prices higher in 2018.
Referendum in Kurdistan: A risky gamble in a volatile region
Nearly 93% of eligible voters in Kurdistan have cast their ballot in favour of independence. Although technically the referendum is non-binding, it does represent a new and potentially dangerous phase
Water wars: China’s new weapon against India
With border tensions continuing near Pangong Lake, China has fashioned a powerful weapon in the form of water to undermine Indian territory.
The slow recovery of Libya’s oil industry
While forecasts suggest that production could reach 1.25 million barrels per day by the end of the year, several factors could affect the revival of the oil industry.
The Energy Briefing: The struggle for Kurdistan’s oil
On Monday, September 25, the government of Iraqi Kurdistan will hold an independence referendum. Although the vote will not trigger any immediate change to the nature of the Kurdish sovereignty
Paraguay’s agricultural sector: how much is at risk?
Despite the political and economical instability facing South America, the small nation of Paraguay is experiencing growth.
Powering Europe’s newest nation: Investigating the Kosovo energy crisis
Last month, Kosovo reached a deal with two private property owners to access some of the lignite coal it needs to supply its power plants.
