Japan’s Oil Diplomacy in the Gulf: Old Idea, New Approaches
Japan’s need for energy security has long driven relations with the Gulf states, but, under the banner of economic diplomacy, Gulf-Japan ties are diversifying.
Regional Affairs
Developments in Qatar and Kuwait
On April 6, AGSIW hosted a dial-in briefing on recent developments in Qatar and Kuwait.
The Future of Renewable and Low Carbon Energy in the Middle East and North Africa
On Wednesday May 19, AGSIW will host a discussion on the transition to alternative energy sources in the Middle East and North Africa.
Bahrain
Latifa Al Khalifa: A Local Curator Showcases Gulf Societies
From collecting wedding photos and exploring the evolution of khaleeji music to using humor to write about how people behave during the holy month of Ramadan, a Bahraini curator brings to light intriguing stories about Gulf societies.
A Conversation with H.E. Dr. Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina, Special Envoy for Climate Affairs, Bahrain
On March 25, AGSIW hosted a conversation with H.E. Dr. Mohamed bin Mubarak Bin Daina to discuss climate-related challenges facing Bahrain and how the kingdom is mitigating these challenges.
Bahraini Marriages: Against Pandemic Odds, Tying the Knot Gets Easier
Economics may offer some insight into why Bahrainis tied the knot more frequently in 2020.
Kuwait
The Politics of Permanent Deadlock in Kuwait
A newly elected National Assembly quickly falls under old dynamics of confrontation and gridlock. Will Kuwait find a path to compromise and reform?
Will Kuwait and Senegal’s Exceptional Friendship Endure?
The long-standing partnership between Kuwait and Senegal has been beneficial to both parties. With a new emir, fallen oil prices, and a smaller 2021 budget, will Senegal remain a priority for Kuwait?
Kuwaitis Vote for Change
Kuwait’s elections resulted in a nearly two-thirds turnover in the National Assembly. Still any reform program hinges on the selection of the leadership of Parliament and new government and their ability to forge a common national agenda.
Oman
Roundtable with Ambassador Leslie M. Tsou, U.S. Ambassador to Oman
As part of its Ambassadors Series, AGSIW hosted a discussion with Ambassador Leslie M. Tsou, U.S. ambassador to Oman.
Abdullah Al Bahrani: Bringing Economic Education and Financial Literacy to Young Omanis
Through YouTube videos, podcasts, and innovative educational programs, an Omani microeconomist encourages informed discussion about key issues of diversification and youth employment.
Popular Omani Novel Joins Others Exploring Gulf States’ Shift to Modernity
In the year that saw the passing of Sultan Qaboos bin Said, an award-winning Omani novel catches fire in book clubs as it explores the tensions and hopes beneath the surface of the extraordinary changes that the sultan brought to the country.
Qatar
Qatar’s Regional Relations and Foreign Policy After Al Ula
The agreement ending the rift with Qatar seems to have helped mitigate some regional tensions, but will the spirit of cooperation continue?
Gulf Reconciliation Offers Uneven Economic Gains
Economic gains associated with the Gulf reconciliation will be narrow and limited, and any economic momentum should be channeled to tackle longer-term challenges in the region.
With New Gulf Agreement, Will Qatar Change?
Why has Qatar so doggedly pursued policies that so often have such adverse repercussions on its relations with its closest neighbors?
Saudi Arabia
U.S.-Saudi Relations: How To Work With, and Rein In, Mohammed bin Salman
Kristin Smith Diwan sat down with F. Gregory Gause III to discuss his March 30 piece for Foreign Affairs, “The United States Is the Last Check on MBS’s Power.”
Labor Reforms in Saudi Arabia: Ambitious Focus on Foreign Workers and Unemployment
New labor reforms are an important first step to improve conditions for foreign workers and could open the door for wider reforms.
The Khashoggi Case in Biden’s Strategy and U.S. Policy Direction
The Biden administration preserves space for statecraft, yet honors Khashoggi’s memory by punishing activity against Saudi dissidents abroad.
United Arab Emirates
The Transformation of Abu Dhabi's Oil Industry
Ben Cahill discussed the fundamental shift in Abu Dhabi's oil policy since 2016.
Everything at Once: Transformation of Abu Dhabi’s Oil Policy
Abu Dhabi traditionally managed its oil and gas resources cautiously and conserved hydrocarbon wealth for future generations, but the energy transition is reshaping its strategy.
Israel-UAE Normalization: Poised for Economic Breakout
Given the complementarity of long-term economic interests between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, and the ties already taking root, relations will likely continue to growth.
Iran
Slender Beijing-Tehran Agreement: More is Less, Despite Hype
China is not going to jeopardize relations with the United States or the Gulf Arab states for stronger ties with an Iran of marginal economic and political value.
Presidential Elections in Iran: Procedures, Candidates, and the Persistent Clout of Key Institutions
Most speculation about the candidates and outcome of Iran’s upcoming presidential election appears premature, and assessments about potential impact on U.S.-Iranian relations seem exaggerated.
A Coordinated Israel-Gulf Policy on Iran: Opportunities and Challenges
This is the first piece in a series by researchers from the Institute for Policy and Strategy at IDC Herzliya.
Iraq
Iraq Puts Faith in Total To Deliver More Gas, Water, and Solar Projects
A $7 billion deal with French oil major Total could provide a lifeline for Iraq’s fragile economy.
Briefing on the U.S.-Iraq Strategic Dialogue
AGSIW hosted a media briefing with Ambassador Douglas A. Silliman on the U.S.-Iraq Strategic Dialogue.
Arar Border Opening: Saudi Arabia Steps Up Economic Competition in Iraq
Saudi Arabia must compete with other regional hegemons, mainly Turkey and Iran, as it works to increase its economic influence in Iraq.
Yemen
With Renewed Efforts To End the War, What are the Prospects for Peace in Yemen?
On Wednesday April 28, AGSIW will host a discussion on efforts to end the conflict in Yemen.
Battlefield Realities Overshadow Some Core Yemeni Concerns in Peace Process
With multiple interests at play, peacemaking in Yemen is a complex problem that goes beyond one party's willingness to take action.
Revitalizing Yemen’s Ancient Traditions of Coffee Cultivation
Young Yemenis set up coffee startups to bolster Yemen’s agricultural sector, setting the stage for economic recovery and social change.
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Through its careful examination of the forces shaping the evolution of Gulf societies and the new generation of emerging leaders, AGSIW facilitates a richer understanding of the role the countries in this key geostrategic region can be expected to play in the 21st century.
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