Trend Growing influence of the Gulf states

Summary

The report sees a marked rise in the influence of the Gulf states in recent years. Turkey and Middle Eastern countries have taken on a larger diplomatic role both in their region and over Ukraine, and their reach is extending beyond the Middle East into Africa and the wider world. To diversify away from oil and gas, the Gulf states are pouring money into infrastructure, energy, mining, logistics, transport and real estate. The report explains that such capital-rich investment works as a lever of influence, securing raw materials while tapping into globalisation and the energy transition. In Europe this shows up positively as closer cooperation around the Mediterranean, though the report adds that war in the Middle East could disturb this dynamic.