The 27th GCC-EU Joint Council in Oman
The 27th Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – European Union (EU) Joint Council and Ministerial Meeting took place in Muscat, Oman on 9th and 10th October 2023.
Chaired by H.E. Sayyid Badr Al-Busaidi, Foreign Minister of the Sultanate of Oman, and H.E. Josep Borrell, High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission, the meeting aimed to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two organizations.
The Pakistan-Iran Border: A Conduit of Culture, Trade, and Geopolitical Dynamics
The Pakistan-Iran border of about 900 kilometers serves more than just an average natural barrier function; it’s an energetic artery for economical, traditional, and geo-political significance.
In fact, the contemporary contacts with Iran date back to ancient migrations of Persian monarchies, Mughal emperors, and Safavid shahs who laid the historical borders that persist to this day.
INTERPOL at 70: Navigating the Dual Role of the Leading International Policing Organisation
Tayyaba Atiq studies the role, effectiveness, achievements, and failures of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL).
She also provides a brief analysis of the ways in which both states and individuals have used INTERPOL as an instrument in order to achieve personal benefits.
Towards the end, few solutions have also been proposed to overcome the challenges hindering the core purpose of the international police organization.
Examining Iran’s Missile Offensive Against Pakistan
Iran conducted missile strikes about 50 Kms deep into Pakistan on 16th January, 2024, striking Panjgur. The news was first broken on social media and then by the international press with a public statement made by Iran. Pakistan then retaliated within 48 hours and undertook a drone attack on Saravan in Iran along with other stand-off weapons and loitering munitions.
Coloniality of the P5: Decoding the Power Dynamics in the UNSC on the Israel-Palestine Conflict
Fatima Arshad Warraich shares how the permanent membership status and the absolute and unaccountable power to veto wielded by the P5 nations in the UNSC undermines democratic principles of the majority. She also adds that it compromises the Council’s ability to impartially address and maintain global peace and security.
She illustrates this by citing how the US, one of the P5 members of the UNSC, vetoed the resolution that demanded immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza on grounds of inadequate condemnation of Hamas and the ceasefire’s inability to create durable peace in the region.
Why Is the Middle East Such a Complicated Region to Study?
A culturally, politically, and historically diverse area, the Middle East has been quite an enigmatic region for scholars to study. This is mainly because of past and present complexities in the region itself and also due to the obscure picture painted by the methodologies employed by scholars in the past. Although there are copious amounts of problems, Mr. Ishfaq has only briefly elucidated several major ones i.e. history, definitional issues, Islam, the West-dominated field, orientalism, and a lack of theoretical focus.
Foreshadowing: Venezuela and Guyana Conflict
Venezuela and Guyana, countries situated in Latin America, may encounter the probable escalation of a land dispute into a military confrontation. Venezuela claims the Essequibo region that currently lies within the boundaries of Guyana.
In 1841, Venezuela disputed British control of the Essequibo region, objecting to the Schomburgk Line. The conflict arose over territorial boundaries and escalated with British claims fueled by a gold discovery. The dispute resurfaced again but as both countries are committed to asserting national sovereignty over the disputed territory, the lack of military action indicates their reluctance to intervene.
What to Expect from the 2024 Taiwan Elections?
China’s growing influence around the world and its emergence as the rising superpower of the globe has inflicted fear in the people of Taiwan who have presidential elections on 13th January.
The major presidential contenders, along with an increasing majority of Taiwan’s population, reject the idea of Chinese governance. However, distinct differences among these parties may result in significantly diverse political landscapes.
Narco-Terrorism: Exploring Hezbollah’s Drug Trafficking Rings
Hezbollah stands out as one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations, funded significantly by drug trafficking. The partnership between drug smuggling criminals and terrorists poses a growing threat to global security.
The interconnected nature of these challenges requires a united effort to address the complex issue of drug smuggling and its implications for international security.
The World in 2023: A Turbulent Year
The turbulent year of 2023 has finally come to an end. The year was marked by numerous conflicts, tragedies, clashes, and chaos around the globe. Unfortunately, the year 2023 has passed instability and chaos to the coming year. Notably, the United States played the key role behind most of these conflicts due to its economic interests.
Artificial Intelligence & Jobs: What Does the Future Hold?
Noman Waheed discusses the potential benefits and drawbacks of artificial intelligence, primarily focusing on its impact on global employment. While the rise of AI negatively influences jobs, particularly in routine sectors, it also has the potential to create jobs in tech-based industries. The author encourages skill development to adapt to the evolving job market influenced by AI.
Houthi Rebels Hijacking Cargo Ships In the Red Sea
Yemen’s Houthi rebels have already destroyed three cargo ships and have imposed serious concerns for the entire trade routes in the region as they have launched 100 attacks since 7th November 2023. The reason showcased behind their attack is solely based on their affection towards the Muslims of Gaza.
However, many analysts are of the belief that it is just another attempt to drive US attention away from Iran and Russia.
The Enigma of Henry Kissinger: Unraveling a Legacy Laced with Blood and Power
Unveiling a career marked by opportunism and pragmatism, Naveed Hussain Mangi scrutinizes Kissinger’s role in shaping world events, from the prolonged Vietnam War to the Middle East and Latin America.
Beyond diplomatic accolades, he examines the bloodstains on Kissinger’s legacy, exploring the enduring consequences of his decisions and the ethical questions raised by his post-1970s advisory role.
Ultimately, the analysis calls for a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between geopolitics, morality, and the human cost of realpolitik.
To Boycott or Not to Boycott: A Pakistani Dilemma
In light of the Israeli war on Gaza, many countries have resorted to boycotting Israeli companies and products in protest. Muhammad Hamza Tanvir presents the two contesting opinions on the boycott movement in Pakistan, highlighting the strengths of each.
Australia-China Relations: Conceptualizing Frenemies?
Under Prime Minister Albanese’s administration, Australia recognized that trade with China is worth more than trade with Japan, the US, and South Korea combined. Normalizing Australia-China relations viz-a-viz complementary economies should be set as a priority.
For China, Australia stands as an important partner, not only in regard to natural and renewable resources but also as having an ally among the Western powers through which it can control a hold over economic as well as political maneuvers.
Consequently, for Australia, shaping a clear policy is necessary as it needs to act with great prudence and analyze its steps in any matter. Australian economic benefits lie with both the US and China so siding with one will only cause problems.
Metamorphosis of Ideals: Mussolini’s Evolution from Socialism to Fascism
Muhammad Sharif Jakhrani traces the ideological metamorphosis of Benito Mussolini, navigating the shift from radical socialism to the intense currents of ultra-nationalistic fascism.
Examining crucial moments such as Italy’s post-World War I disillusionment, the narrative emphasizes the nuanced and dynamic nature of political ideologies.
Benito Mussolini’s journey serves as a compelling case study, illustrating the intricate interplay of personal aspirations, societal changes, and political climates.
The article invites the reader to explore how one man’s transformation significantly impacted the ever-changing tapestry of political thought. It will particularly be helpful for the aspirants of competitive exams who are taking European history and Political Science as optional subjects.
Will the Lost Glimmer in CPEC’s Progress Push China into Abandoning It?
CPEC – a project with unprecedented provisions to Pakistan, China, the Middle East, and other connected regions – has top position in evolving Pakistan’s future.
The completed projects have aided Pakistan, but there is no solid evidence to ease the concerns regarding the credibility of employment estimates, Pakistan’s outstanding debts, China’s dwindling interest, and a lack of certainty and security.
Fiza Bibi Ameen addresses the possibility of China abandoning CPEC entirely, in addition to assessing the factors behind project’s slow pace.