In Geopolitics Today: Monday, March 13th
Belarus and Iran Vow to Boost Ties, Technological Competition Drives Innovation in Saudi Arabia, and other stories.
Belarus and Iran Vow to Boost Ties
The presidents of Iran and Belarus hailed their close ties during talks in Tehran. The visit of Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko to Tehran signals the importance of Iran as a partner for Russia. This comes amid accusations that Iran has been supplying Moscow with armed drones for use in the Ukraine war.
The talks highlight the shifting alliances and power dynamics in the region. Belarus has served as a rear base for Russian troops, making it an important ally for Moscow. As Western powers maintain their stance against Iran, the country is turning towards Russia and its allies for support. This could have significant implications for the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. As Iran strengthens its ties with Belarus, it could further complicate the geopolitical situation in the region. With Lukashenko's visit being the first by a Belarusian president in 17 years, it is clear that the meeting was meant to send a message.
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UK Boost to Defence Spending to Prioritise Nuclear Forces
The UK government has announced a £5 billion ($6 billion) increase in defence spending. The boost to defence spending highlights the country's commitment to maintaining its global military position amid growing geopolitical tensions. The focus on nuclear programs, including the UK’s role in equipping Australia with a fleet of nuclear submarines, indicates a recognition of the need to invest in advanced military technology to counter potential threats from rival powers.
However, the increase in defence spending falls short of the funding sought by the Defence Secretary, and the armed forces continue to face challenges in maintaining their capabilities. This underscores the need for a comprehensive defence strategy that addresses not only immediate concerns but also the long-term capabilities needed to ensure national security. As geopolitical tensions continue to rise, the government must ensure that its military investment aligns with its strategic objectives, both in terms of technology and the readiness of the armed forces.
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An Economic War is Impacting the World Monetary System
The ongoing economic war between Russia and NATO countries is affecting the world's economic system. The economic consequences of the war are expected to be significant, especially in the sphere of monetary relations.
The world economy of the future could be divided into several blocks. This project is reminiscent of Hitler's plan for a new world order based on a similar monetary system in 1940, which was never implemented. The outcome of the ongoing war in Ukraine will determine the future of the world monetary system. Russia's ambition to create a new international monetary system is a cause for concern for the Euro-Atlantic countries, and it remains to be seen how this vision will play out in the coming years.
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Qatar a Major Top Arms Importer
Despite global attention on arms shipments to Ukraine amid Russia's invasion, Middle East and North African countries remained among the world's largest global arms importers in 2022. A report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) identified a clear drop in Russian arms exports, allowing other exporters to take advantage.
The report by SIPRI provides insights into the global arms trade and the power dynamics surrounding it. The reluctance of western states to provide major arms to Ukraine for fear of escalating its conflict with Russia contrasts with their willingness to supply arms to the Middle East, highlighting the complex and often self-serving nature of global politics. Additionally, the report sheds light on the significant market share held by France in the arms trade, especially in the Middle East and Asia, and the decline in Russia's arms exports .
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Technological Competition Drives Innovation in Saudi Arabia
Shifts in global geopolitical dynamics have been brought by technological innovations over the past decade, with China and the United States now engaged in a technological competition. Saudi Arabia, which aims to diversify its economy through innovation, has become a platform for both these powers to showcase their technological achievements through the annual Global Cybersecurity Forum and LEAP Tech Conference.
Strong policy and strategy frameworks have been geared to attract foreign innovation in Saudi Arabia. The country's partnership with China is ‘partly aimed at driving continued progress in digital transformation. Meanwhile, Washington is rejuvenating its regional strategic partnerships to contain the accelerating proliferation of Chinese technologies in the region. Saudi Arabia and India's cooperation in cybersecurity is also steadily progressing with many Indian companies aiming to get a piece of Riyadh's investment offerings.