Skip to main content

GCC-ASEAN Summit: The Gulf's Pivot to Asia in Shifting Geopolitical Landscape



The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) is strategically shifting its focus towards Asia in a geopolitical context that is changing quickly. There will be a turning point with the impending GCC-Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Riyadh. Beyond conventional oil-centric perspectives, the GCC seeks to forge strong commercial links, realizing the enormous potential of the Asian market.

To lessen dependency on oil money, the GCC has economic diversification as a top priority. The geopolitical environment, where Iran is diverting its attention to the East as a result of Western sanctions, is also impacting the GCC's strategic decisions. Regional conflicts are becoming more pronounced in Asia as a result of the expansion of geopolitical competition that was previously limited to the Middle East and Africa.

This turn towards Asia is being driven by Saudi Arabia, a transformative GCC player, and is being driven by both economic and geopolitical concerns. Saudi Arabia's objectives are also influenced by Iran's rising presence in Asia, while the UAE also sees Asia through an economic lens.

The GCC-ASEAN Summit will strengthen cooperation in a variety of fields, including energy, defense, security, digital infrastructure, and technology transfers. Various sectors, including real estate and the oil industry, are included in the GCC's investment goals for ASEAN. In exchange, ASEAN countries look for GCC investments to strengthen their capabilities and reduce their reliance on particular partners.

The GCC sees a win-win opportunity for diversification in striking a balance in its relations with China and the ASEAN. While exploring new options and hedging bets, the drive towards Asia is not intended to sour relations with China. This strategic change necessitates a thorough analysis of regional dynamics and an active effort to shape upcoming alliances.
Labels:

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE's Foreign Trade Surge Highlights Strategic Economic Vision

  The UAE's foreign trade reached a record AED5.23 trillion (US$1.42 trillion) in 2024, marking a 49% increase since 2021 and reinforcing its global economic influence. Despite fluctuating global market conditions, the country managed to post a trade surplus of AED492.3 billion (US$134 billion), showcasing the strength of its trade frameworks and diversified economy. According to the World Trade Organisation, the UAE has maintained its position as the Middle East and Africa's foremost trade community since 2014, while steadily climbing the global ranks. In merchandise trade, the UAE placed 11th in exports and 14th in imports in 2024. It contributed 2.5% of global exports and 2.2% of imports, reflecting a robust trading ecosystem that bridges major global markets. The services sector also delivered notable gains. From 2014 to 2024, the UAE rose to 13th globally in service exports. Service transactions in 2024 totaled AED1.036 trillion, of which AED646.6 billion were exports. The...
Post a Comment
Read more

UAE’s Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed arrives in Qatar on official visit

  HH Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, arrived in Qatar for an official visit, where he was warmly received by the Deputy Emir of Qatar at Doha International Airport. On Tuesday, Sheikh Khaled met with HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, in Doha. The meeting underscored the strong brotherly ties between the UAE and Qatar, with both leaders engaging in detailed discussions aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation. Sheikh Khaled conveyed greetings from UAE President HH Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, and Deputy Prime Minister and Chairman of the Presidential Court HH Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed.  The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in key strategic sectors of mutual interest. Sheikh Khaled expressed his heartfelt appreciation to the Emir of Qatar for the warm reception and hospitality, expressing hopes for Qatar's continued progress. He reaffirmed the UAE's leadership and p...
Post a Comment
Read more