In Geopolitics Today: Friday, March 10th
Iran and Saudi Arabia Agree to Restore Relations, Turkey Blocks Transit of Sanctioned Goods to Russia, and other stories.
Iran and Saudi Arabia Agree to Restore Relations
Iran and Saudi Arabia have agreed to re-establish diplomatic relations and reopen embassies within two months, according to reports from state media in both countries. The decision was made after talks held in Beijing, marking a significant step towards improving ties between the two regional rivals. The joint statement from Saudi Arabia and Iran confirmed that the two countries had agreed to respect state sovereignty and not interfere in each other's internal affairs, as well as activating a security cooperation agreement signed in 2001.
The relationship between Iran and Saudi Arabia has been marked by tensions for many years, with the two nations supporting opposing sides in conflicts throughout the Middle East. However, recent efforts to improve relations have been made, with meetings taking place in Baghdad and Oman. Improved relations between Iran and Saudi Arabia could have far-reaching effects on politics in the region, potentially leading to greater cooperation and collaboration on issues of mutual interest. The agreement could also impact the ongoing conflicts in the region, such as the war in Yemen, which has been marked by the involvement of both Iran and Saudi Arabia. A more stable relationship between the two countries could provide a framework for resolving these conflicts and bringing about greater stability in the region.
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France and UK Agree to Halt Migration Across the English Channel
France and the United Kingdom have agreed on a multiyear financial package to halt migration across the English Channel, including the deployment of enhanced technology to patrol the country's beaches and doubling the number of personnel deployed to tackle small-boat crossings. The UK will help fund a detention centre in France, while a new 24-hour zonal coordination centre with permanent British liaison officers will bring all relevant French authorities together to coordinate the response.
Both countries sought to establish a positive agenda for bilateral cooperation, pledging to increase cooperation in areas of shared interest such as energy, defence and migration, in light of global geopolitical tensions and emerging challenges. In regards to migration, the two sides agreed to combat illegal crossings of the English Channel through increased patrolling activities and new detention centres on the French coasts. On energy, cooperation will include investments in renewable and low-carbon nuclear energy, as well as new electricity interconnectors between the two countries. In the area of defence, the two leaders agreed to train Ukrainian marines, increase the interoperability of their forces, coordinate the deployment of carriers in the Indo-Pacific, as well as explore the joint development of complex weapons.
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Turkey Blocks Transit of Sanctioned Goods to Russia
Turkey has recently taken measures to comply with Western sanctions on Russia by blocking the transit of sanctioned goods through its territory. According to Bloomberg News, a senior Turkish official confirmed that Ankara had started blocking the shipment of such goods on March 1. The move has reportedly affected the transit of goods to Russia and Belarus that have been designated as sanctioned by the EU, which are now being rejected by Turkish customs.
Turkey has long been an important economic partner to Russia, along with the United Arab Emirates. Despite this, Ankara has faced increasing pressure from the US and European countries to cut commercial ties with Russia. Turkey has attempted to position itself as a mediator in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, maintaining open dialogue with both countries. However, it has faced condemnation for its refusal to join Western sanctions against Russia despite condemning the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Nonetheless, Turkey has occasionally taken a firm stance against Moscow, such as by closing the straits to the Black Sea to Russian war vessels.
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Undersea Security: A Vital Aspect of Contemporary Geopolitics
The 21st century has seen the oceans become increasingly important in shaping global affairs. The growing dependence of countries on undersea cables and energy interconnectors highlights the strategic value of maritime connectivity and the need to protect it from potential threats. For the UK, this is particularly crucial given its reliance on undersea infrastructure to power its economy and social services. The Russian Federation, in particular, has modernized its capabilities to exploit undersea vulnerabilities and exert political pressure.
The security of undersea infrastructure is a vital aspect of contemporary geopolitics and requires concerted efforts to ensure its sustainable management and responsible governance. This includes developing new technologies to detect and respond to potential threats, as well as promoting international norms and standards for undersea activity. As countries become increasingly interconnected through undersea networks, the need for collaborative efforts to secure these vital resources will only become more critical. As such, undersea security will continue to play an essential role in shaping global affairs in the years to come.
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Australia Set to Acquire Four or Five Nuclear Submarines
Australia will reportedly commit to buying four to five US-built Virginia class nuclear-powered submarines. The move marks a significant shift in Australia's defence strategy, as it seeks to counter China's growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. The acquisition of these submarines provides Australia with enhanced capabilities to deter potential adversaries, giving it a greater ability to project power beyond its shores.
The recent announcement of Australia's acquisition and operation of nuclear submarines through the AUKUS security pact has significant geopolitical implications for the region. The acquisition highlights the growing strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific region, as US and its allies seek to counter China's influence in the region. The acquisition of nuclear submarines by Australia will be viewed by China as a significant threat, potentially leading to an arms race in the region. This, in turn, could lead to greater instability and conflict, with far-reaching consequences for the global economy and security.