January 2018

at January 31, 2018 0

Russia has not made any statement yet, condemning Turkish offensiveness.

 
Despite the claims, cooperation with Turkey is much more beneficial for Russia
In the mid of January, Turkey launched operation “Olive Branch” in Syrian city of Afrin. The purpose of that to tackle Kurdish militia that was causing problems inside Turkey from sitting over there in Syria. As, the offensive gesture proceeded in Syria there are speculations that Russia was involved helping Turkey overcoming the Kurdish militia. Explicitly, without Russian consent, operation of such temperament could have not been started.

The operation on one hand required Air force to enter into Syrian territory which must be conducted with Russian approval. On the other side of dilemma, Turkey thought it vital to assure from Russia that Bashar ul Asad will not gain edge over the situation and snatch the places in Idlib province on which Turkey has its hold.

Another strong argument to this allegation is that Russia has not yet made a single statement condemning the Turkish offensiveness. Additionally, it seemed impossible that operation of such caliber by similarly a smaller state was initiated without the shoulder strength of a larger one. General from YPG force has questioned Russia why they have betrayed the Kurds and as they did this they have to pay a price sooner or later. According to the YPG, Russia became the eyebrows for Turks when this operation started.

Reportedly, Turkish Chief of Staff Hulusi Akar and Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigo met in Istanbul last year during summer. In that sitting the seeds of operation olive branch were planted. Thereupon, Russia gave access to Turkey for usage of Syrian airspace that later became the opening door for operation in Afrin. Surprisingly, Ankara started building its military base near Kurdish areas of ruling and that was the part of that agreement. However, Russian withdrawal of troops from Afrin is a fact that no one can deny and this act is making the objections more clear.

Russian relations with Kurds been never so lively yet they only used their support when it needed to stand up in the terrains of Middle East. Additionally, YPG always allied with United States and opposite to Russia.

Additionally, Russia elections are approaching in 2018 and Vladimir Putin wants to start its campaign by successfully inaugurating the Congress of Syrian people which is hosted by Turkey. In order to end this combat through a peaceful measure the help of Turkey is essential. Henceforth, Putin needs Turkey on his side.

An important chip on Turkish side is gas pipeline that is being constructed in Turkish waters. Moscow is willing to expand its gas export to higher level and it is not ready to face anything that cripples this process of construction. The Turkish steam is a Russian dream indeed.



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at January 31, 2018 0

Income inequality in India is getting worse.

 
A country of poor people but, not for poor people
At the event of ongoing World Economic Forum, a report was released by Oxfam. The report underlined the increasing wealth disparity in India in couple of years. Reportedly, the 1% of total population owned 73% of total wealth in 2017. However, the figure was 58% in 2016. By and large, the increasing ratio is much higher than expected and this is prodigious situation.

Meanwhile, experts analyzed the situation as worse than before. Indian tax reforms were brought in by British authoritative rule in 1922. As can be seen, the inequality has raised surpassing the situations from any of the year passed. Additionally, economists have confirmed the rapid growth of economic diversification between the countrymen. Henceforth, the approximate calculations have to be noted seriously. Meanwhile, if someone is going to object the estimations, than the direction and rapidity of income equality would still be a concerned aspect to deal with.
 
Top 10 Indians are having 73% of total wealth.

To demonstrate, the liberal mode of ideological economic system in this country has seems failed. The poor who are working hard for the owners, living in poor conditions but building infrastructure as struggling for the education of their children to get going. As can be seen, Indians are struggling for a meal a day. Consequently, these conditions are going to urge on more corruption and patronage resulting in weakening and discouraging democracy. Explicitly, according to the reports, it will take approximately 900 years for a low income worker in India to earn what the top executives and owner in leading firms are earning in a year.

There are extreme level steps that government has to conduct including to promote inclusive growth by encouraging labor sectors, high tax ration on super-rich personalities, tackle gender discrimination and reforms against tax dodging. The estimated tax evasion is $200 billion. Most importantly, the fact is developing countries are losing about $170 billion in tax dodging every year.

By and large, the solution of this massive drawback is lying in Indian hands. Growth diversity can be eradicated through limiting the share of shareholders which are getting ten times to the salary of an average worker who works day after day for the firm. The companies should encourage limiting the pay ration to owners and executives as well.

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at January 30, 2018 0



Pakistan has been entangled in issues of huge spectrum since the last decade. It has coped up with hunger, poverty, corruption, sanctions, bad trade and many other issues in this time. But what stood apart from all the issues of this fragile democracy was the menace of terrorism. 




However, the nation realized after a decade of bloodshed that something needed to be done for the peace and safety. While this sentiment was on the rise, the terrorists delivered another heavy blow. It was the massacre of the APSACS Peshawar.

The massacre of Peshawar was actually targeted at the schools to disrupt the educational services of Pakistan. However, this step created a sentiment that the military leadership had to think about. Immediately, a verdict of war was passed, and military initiated the Operation Zarb e Azb within three days. This ensured that safety of Pakistan from the terrorist elements had to be uprooted.

Sharif’s Zarb e Azb




General Raheel Sharif, then serving chief of Pakistan was the man with the plan in this operation. The operation was given proper space and the residents of the terrorist infested cities were displaced internally. 

Raheel Sharif is hailed as a conqueror of terrorism in Pakistan...


After that, a year of bloodshed and war followed to rid the Northern areas off the terrorists. The result of this was around 90% decrease of the terrorist activity in Pakistan. The remaining 10% was coming across the border. As some commanders retreated into Afghanistan and are conducting operations from Afghan territory, as Pakistan claims.

Maintaining a Ripple


It is said that creating a ripple is the easiest feat to obtain, while maintaining it proves to be a boulder of responsibility. In the final phases of the Operation Zarb e Azb, Sharif had to leave his office and get retired. The next general was none other than the one fighting on the Northern Fronts, General Qamar Javed Bajwa.




Bajwa was entrusted with an opportunity that was higher and more intense in its spectrum as compared to General Raheel Sharif. The nation had to now maintain the feat that one general made with high efforts.

For Bajwa, only maintaining the feat was not the case. There was a severe distrust amongst citizens too as the Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif had chosen him personally. And being associated with a corrupt politician was a high disrespect in its own sense.
Although, this sentiment was dominant but, Bajwa had to maintain a ripple and give in more positive reforms to the society. He initiated the operation Radd ul Fasaad, which ensured that the enemies of Pakistan are eliminated from within, and the positive reforms in the nation are overseen.

Radd ul Fasaad takes care of the enemies from within.

Another Worthy Piece of the Puzzle

The Radd ul Fasaad still continues to this day, uprooting all the enemies from within. The role of the army is becoming better every day and the potential issues. The curse of corruption remains, but the administration of Pakistan will also take care of it someday.

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at January 30, 2018 0

The Canberra government has announced to sell military hardware at much higher level than before.

 
Australia is willing to get into the list of top ten arm exporters
The Government is preparing to export more and more weapons that the ambition is to put the state into the list of top ten global arms selling countries. The officials yesterday have stated that they want to lift up the ratio of sale. Meanwhile, experts on specific operations have warned the government that it will only provide the sustainability to repressive rulings in different parts of globe such as in Asia and Middle East.

At the moment, Australia is the 20th biggest nation in the field of arms exporting in the world. The Government yesterday has released the report saying that it will fund $3.8 Billion this year in such area. Accordingly, this will put the country into the list of top ten arms selling countries. However, the step is taken to ensure the incentives helping many multinational setups that were in jeopardy. For instance, organizations like Thales will account for increase in exporting munitions, combat vehicles, command and control centers and mostly optronics, Ratheon in ship combat systems and BAE systems will go for more exports in variety of more guided and automatic weaponry systems.

Al though, the government is looking to meet the official buyers in UK, USA, Canada and China yet the country is willing to seal the relations with these countries in volatile regions. In other words, Australia is providing the arsenal to these friends in Middle Eastern or Asian territories. Surprisingly, the government has not uncovered the facts regarding the selling arsenal yet.

To demonstrate the ambitions, there are some accusations regarding the selling to different countries. Allegedly, it was reported that number of agreement were made with Saudi Arabia in couple last months. On the other hand, it was quite clear that the Saudi regime was dealing with Houthi rioters in Yemen and there is a high possibility of these exported weapons to be used in that insurgency. Consequently, this will fuel up the strife.

UAE was another buyer of Australian arsenal. Since, 2015 UAE has got the weapons and allegedly used these in Libya and Yemen which accused the country as a bomber on human rights over there. Meanwhile, Australia has already impacted over the Arab blows by providing huge armaments.

In Asian parts, Philippine government got assisted by Australian shipments of military hardware. On the other hand, the Philippine government is accused as the executor of human rights and trafficking.

In any event, the race of weapons is growing day by day and there is no sight that can give us the exact time frame of where this race is going to end. As we are witnessing the new proxies and terrains in Asia and Middle East being opened, the Australian ambition would fuel up the things, making these combats more complex.


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at January 29, 2018 0

China and Maldives have agreed upon Free Trade Agreement.

 
Xi Jinping and Abdulla Yameen review an honor guard before talks
India’s leverage over its credentials in the region has hit a robust hurricane, as Maldives entered into a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China. Maldives as compared to any other state of the region, is least populated and has a low GDP. President Abdulla Yameen’s visit of four days to China has earned them the rank as it became the second Asian country to hold an FTA with China, while Pakistan being the first. The axis started when Chinese President Visit Maldives in September 2014. Coupled with the fact, that China secured Male’s accord to be a member in China’s one-belt, one-road initiative. Al though, this affected Indian claims and insecurities over the project.  

On December 7, 2017 Maldives and China engaged into FTA as well as promised more cooperation and bilateral terms in the areas of health, tourism, technology and education.

Maldives holds a crucial position in demography. An islet of 1200 Islands in Indian Ocean, Maldives has a sound strategic influence and importance to the world. For instance, from its proximity, the two-third of world’s oil passes. Additionally, it is just 1200 km away from Indian mainland. Consequently, the agreement will bring China to sit on the most extensive and busiest sea route. Meanwhile, China holds the same strategy with Sri Lanka and Pakistan.

In fact, Maldives got independence from Britain in 1965 as their colonial state. India was a key player in Maldives economy and growth until former President Muhammad Nasheed, a key ally of India was forced to resign in 2012. India has played crucial role in ensuring political stability in Maldives.

On the other hand, Male was never a priority for Beijing until the visit of President of China. China assisted infrastructure and tourism expansion in the country. The FTA will definitely, increase the Chinese role in Maldivian economy. Reportedly, in a Chinese statement, both countries will reduce their tariffs up to 90% which used to be zero earlier.   
 
Leaders of the nations with their wives
Maldives is hopeful that the FTA will expand the fishing industry. The Chinese markets will target the production made by Maldivian producers. Additionally, China is willing to open “world’s largest consumer market” to Maldivian fish.

Indian security analysis have pursued and even warned the Maldivians that the FTA is a trap and will further put them under Chinese debt. Consequently, their country will be exposed to Chinese pressure and demands. Thereupon, the pressure will accumulate a Chinese naval base in Maldives.

Meanwhile, the fear deepened when the country passed the law for foreigners to own land in Maldives.Al though, this law is not for a specific country but it is expected that Chinese will have more perks from this from any other state. Furthermore, the land can be owned so there is the probability that China may initiate a naval base over the site.

For Indian concerns, Maldives Foreign Minister dispatched to New Delhi and repeated that claims that India is and will be a top concern for Maldives. He added that his country is having firm bilateral ties with India.


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at January 29, 2018 0

The two blocks of the Islamic world are looking up to the new grounds in Africa.

Two bordering states have a close access to Yemen

Saudi Arabia the firm state in Middle East is lighting up the heat of conflict to the next level. The Middle Eastern State, Iran is the fierce peer to the country, which claims it to be the leader of Islamic world, the Saudi Arabia. The rivals are moving into the new ground in Africa which was decided by the circumstances as there is no shaky field left in the region of Middle East. The Horn of Africa: Somalia is the place preyed upon the contest. Moreover, this involved about six more countries into the ground. The countries are enhancing themselves by providing sea bases to the competing states. However, if the rivalry gets tougher, the countries in the region of Africa, may get involve properly by setting up the frays for Arab States.

Namely, the spat has divided into two groups. One is the block, who wants Muslim brotherhood and better relations with Iran by strengthening harmony and cooperation among all the Muslim States. On the other hand, the coalition led by Saudi Arabia wants to dictate the Islamic world by stressing the point of being the leader of Islamic world. The block including Egypt and United Arab Emirates is the follower of moderate Sunni Islam. Additionally, it wants to block the Shia version of Islam promoted by Iran.

Meanwhile, tangential states are been affected as reportedly, Egypt has deployed its troops in Eretria near the Eritrean border of Sudan. Earlier, Sudan was accused to expand brotherhood by Egypt and Eritrean President has bashed Qatar and its persuasive allies. The competitors are in riot in Yemen and in Syria. Meanwhile, UAE is labeled as the fuel supplier to the regional tensions. In fact, the countries in Africa have been called to take sides: majority of them have denied taking any side but yet they offered naval and military facilities.

Despite African involvement in providing facilities, Djibouti before the Yemen conflict, has already earned billions of dollars now by providing crucial bases to United States, China and France. Moreover, UAE has its port in Eretria, as a primal mark to hit over Houthi Rebels in Yemen. Sudan was reported not to give port access to Egypt but to Turkey at the point of Suakin, on the Red Sea. Similarly, Egypt agreed to give access of two small islands near the Gulf of Aqaba, to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Another important country in Africa, Somali land, is holding strong terms with UAE. The United Arab Emirates is building base over there and looking forward to connecting landlocked Ethiopia to ports of Somali land via roads. Similarly, Ethiopia is in serious crisis as it has smooth relations with Turkey and UAE. Turkey is the biggest investor in Ethiopia yet Egypt is dealing with its power problem through construction of dam. Additionally, UAE has tenacious antennas in Ethiopia and in respond to this the Al Jazeera Channel of Qatar has recently inaugurated its office Addis Ababa.

Surprisingly, Ethiopia and Eretria have a firm history of collision. The ceasefire on disputed border is the bone of contention between two states and the armies are having a heavy glance on each other. The rivals are fueling the war in Yemen through these states and in case, situations get tougher, these African states will be piddled robustly under the crisis. 



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at January 27, 2018 0

The south-Asian battle for global domination is not unknown at all! The two powers in the region, India and Pakistan have been in this intense rivalry since the dawn of their independence. Since then, different moves and strategies to prove one’s regional superiority on their seasoned rivals are emerging. 

And due to this very same sentiment, the two are never able to have a same point of view over something.

However, according to many, Indians and Pakistanis look the same; and they proved it with their condition in the GHI (Global Hunger Index).



In the GHI ratings, India stood at 100th place while Pakistan could secure the 106th only. These positions were the least applauded ones owing to the claims of both the nations in their political drives. Currently, there are many African countries too that were able to outperform these two nations in this index.

The Largest Nations on the Planet


India is known to have the second largest population in the World after China. On the other hand, Pakistan is at 6th number. Hence, this situation according to some is more critical than anything else.



Both of these nations have a strong agricultural environment that is sustainable for the most suitable growth of the plants. And despite all these perks at their disposal, the two are claimed to face serious hunger issues.

Top 3 in Asia


Another chart that marks both of these nations in the top 3 is the hunger. However, this one is not something to be very proud of.



In Asia, the most hunger-affected nation is Afghanistan. The second place is currently owned by Pakistan and the Indians are the third hungriest nation in the Asian continent.

Analysis


Both of these nations aim for the highest skies when it comes to bragging about their potential and dominance in the region. However, if we set the political sirens aside, major losses are experienced by both.

The Indian and Pakistani economies are expected by the world to hit the superpower ratings in the coming future. However, the hunger of the present doesn’t attest to that. Both of the nations are struggling badly with hunger and the level of interest in this matter is minute.

If both of the nations do not revise their hunger policies in due time, the chances are that both will be struck by some of the worst issues in the near future.
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at January 26, 2018 0

Thailand is struggling to end the bonded labor and human trafficking within its fishing vessels. However, to their biggest disappointment, the trend still seems to be rife.



Being the World’s largest seafood exporter is not a easy feat to maintain, and Thailand is known for this. But the abuse of the human-rights onboard the fishing ships equally as traumatic!

Horrific Results Revealed


In an investigation by the Human Rights Watch between 2015 and 2017, the Thailand’s situation aboard was clearly horrific. The investigation teams interviewed around 248 current and former fishermen in the Thai fishing industry. And the reports revealed that the fishermen that are mainly Cambodian and Burmese are still underpaid and are experiencing a poor working atmosphere and standard of living.

The report was mainly conducted to mainly minimize the effect of this menace as it plagues the $6.5 Billion industry. It also investigates the Government’s pledges to reform and how they have been successful to cleanse this industry.

The Fish On Your Plate Might Be One Too!



The report concludes that the fish meat that makes it to the markets of Europe, Americas and Japan has no proof that this food was not provided by abused workers. The situation is intense in this scenario and therefore imminent actions are required to uplift this curse.



Shrimp, snapper, bream, mackerel and tuna are among some of the fish that are delivered to the international markets by these Thai workers. So the next time you see the tins of international meals, just think about the poor working conditions and lifestyle people have to afford to get that platter of meal ready.

Shockwaves Around the World

The report is yielding some very disturbing results for the reputation of the Thai fishing industry in the international market. The European Union intends to put a ban on the Thai seafood imports owing to the life of the workers as depicted by the court.

There were reports like this one before in the 2014 and 2015 where Brussels gave a warning to Thailand to improve the conditions. The government responded by enforcing a new ordinance that regulates the fishing industry. There was a requirement put on the immigrant workers to have all the necessary documentation on the vessels before leaving the port and after arrival. However, now it is being revealed that these attempts to control this issue have also failed.



The US on the other hand has also put Thailand on the watch list by categorizing it as “Tier 2” in the Global Human Trafficking rating. This is the second-worst rating category for the US and the effects of this inclusion would be felt by Thai international exports.

Government Also Made a Report


The government of Thailand also claimed to initiate official inspections and interviews of the fishing laborers. Out of those 474,334 people that got interviewed, none could identify the case of a forced labor. However, with this latest investigation, claims are being made that once the boat makes it into the waters, the IDs and official documents are confiscated by the workers and the leaves are not granted by the employers.

The issue of Thailand’s seafood industry still continues to be a tug of war.

Analysis


The Thailand’s fishing industry is huge in size owing to its clients and their distinct needs. The possibility of the industry running without international labor is impossible. However, there should be implemented proper means to make sure that the lifestyle both off and onboard the fishing vessels are bearable for immigrants.

The investigation in which none of the 474,334 fishermen experiencing a forced labor seems highly exaggerated. There could not be a case where such a gigantic number of investigations are made and on the other hand only a few hundred manage to rule them out. The government’s failure in projecting the true figures signifies how poor of a situation there is in the Thai industry of seafood.
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at January 26, 2018 0
MSDF is once more claiming to have caught North Koreans red handed as their boat gains fuel supplies from a Dominican Republic vessel in the East China Sea. The North Korea is not allowed to be provided any fuel or energy supplies in that region.
North Korean vessels are once more caught taking supplies in violations of the sanctions imposed by the US.


Earlier this week, a Maritime Self-Defense Force aircraft took the photos of the encounter. The P-3C also took images of the refuel that was in process near Shanghai, the Capital of China, the sources told.

The Japan has responded violently to this information, and has passed it to the United States, the key ally for the Japanese in the sanctions against North Korea.

Japan and North Korea are Not at Ease


Japan and North Korea are once more at a state of tug-of-war by Japan vowing to take tougher measures to ensure that North Korea does not evade the international sanctions. Taro Kano, who is the foreign minister said,

“North Korea is becoming more skilled at escaping sanctions. We will take a co-ordinated response to it internationally.”

Japanese Are On the Lookout


At the request of the US, the Japanese MSDF land and air vessels are constantly patrolling the proximity of Korea to see if North Korea is evading any sanctions as put by the US. This is being done in response to the UN Security Council resolution that had been passed to prohibit any of its member states to provide goods and energy supplies to North Korea.
This time the North Korean vessel was caught red-handed by the Japanese Lockheed P-3C aircraft.

In this encounter, a P-3C aircraft was on the same duty and specifically looking out for the illegal transfer of the refined oil at sea by North Korea.

North Korea Becoming Tougher Day By Day


In response to the recent nuclear and missile tests by the North Korea, the US and the international community put more sanctions on the North Korea to maintain the balance of power in the region. North Korea currently faces a huge list of tough international sanctions due to its mysterious actions in the region.



Also, as the encounter was captured near Shanghai, the claims are also being made to approach Hong Kong to tighten the regulations in the proximity so that the sanctions can be enforced more effectively.



Sigal Mandelker, the Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence says,

“Hong Kong, of course, is an international financial hub and at the same time it has company formation and registration rules that we think need to be stronger,”

Analysis


The role of North Korea in the region is getting more troublesome for the UN Security Committee. The Japanese are on the lookout but the present capabilities of the North Korean military pose a serious threat in the region. Furthermore, with the inclusion of the latest missile system and state of the art nuclear research, North Korea makes it impossible to be controlled by force. Hence, US and other allies can’t do anything but to monitor that none comes into a constructive contact for the North Korean authorities.

In the recent encounter, the Chinese should also be attentioned. Being a global superpower, the role of China in enforcing the rule is a vital one. And if such happenings are underway in the proximity of China then this is a moment to think about it. The Chinese should strengthen their proximity to make sure that North Korean vessels don’t use their waters for this activity, or else, unrest within of the Security Council will also be seen.

Even previously, Chinese firms have been accused for exporting metals and other goods to the North Koreans. The regulations should be tightened a bit, otherwise this North Korea versus Japan encounter can escalate into a USA versus China war in the UN Security Council.
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at January 26, 2018 0

Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi has no one to tackle him in impending elections.

President of Egypt Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi

Elections on head and we are seeing the leaders get arrested one after another. Of course, a destruction of freedom and openness in Egypt has devised the decision that chiefs of numerous parties are out of the race in coming polling. Egyptian Army has arrested the former military chief and candidate of president in upcoming contest Sami Annan, by accusing him of serious contentions.

Seemingly, this has become clear that President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, a top graduate of military establishment and the man responsible for the breaking down of Government of President Merci is certain to win the elections. Sami Annan on some extent was the latest hope for presidency but this dilemma is now dead.

Comparatively, as Annan is now out of the race, there is only a one man who could stand up before el-Sissi in upcoming combat, Khaled Ali, Prominent rights lawyer. Meanwhile, all other possible presidential hopeful candidates are obliged to quit by coercion. Some of them faced harsh criticism while others quit because of the safety of their supporters. One of the candidates expressed his anxiety by calling this Putinesque: the use of military and police in favor that no one could disintegrate your ambitions.
Sami Annan, arrested by Egyptian officials 


Al though, Annan, who is 69, was not considered as a vigorous contender to win and may not prove as a harm to Sessi’s desires but his detention has made this clear how far Sissi could go to make his way unimpeded in looming elections.

Sissi’s actions clarify that he is not confident enough that he has the support of majority so all he could do was to erect the opponents out of his way. The former General was welcomed when he took the power by throwing Mohammed Merci out of his way but now most of the public considers him as a General, not as a leader, whose only intention is to keep himself in power and suppress any sort of criticism. Additionally, he is being called as the boss of vast corruption exercises and the demolisher of possible democracy in Egypt.

Accordingly, numbers of opposition leaders are arrested and others have withdrawn themselves out of of the race. To sum up, the elections are now the instance of polls held by Saddam or Bashar-al- Assad, as there is no one chasing Sissi. On the whole, the world is witnessing as Sissi is demolishing the hopes of Egyptian nation, the hopes they manifested at Tehrir Square seven years ago.



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at January 25, 2018 0

China is aiming to connect China and Middle East under Silk Road project.

Map of Silk road connecting different parts of the world

A forum in Shanghai last weekend, showed the train of strategies in One-belt, One-road initiative. The wider plan highlighted as cooperation between China and Middle East. The Silk Road project involves main corridors which will connect Asia, Africa, Middle East, North Africa and Europe. The precise route extends through Middle East to Africa.

Chinese production capability proves way ahead the goals when start exporting to different parts of the world. The world’s second largest economy is eyeing for ideas to invest heavily by building industrial complexes and technical assistance wings in the countries of particular regions. Of course, the plan moves towards the better trade opportunities between China and different regional states.

Likewise, China desires to expand the project circle, the circle will connect less developed western China to the eastern Mediterranean. The ambitions include Med Railways, expand the ports such as Oman’s Duqm, as well as investments in Turkey. Chinese-Arab trade has already extends double in just four years from 2010 to 2014. Similarly, Arab states are importing its 40% to China. Meanwhile, China is the largest exporter to Arab nations. Furthermore, the Silk Road project along with trade opportunities will include project like LNG, Pipelines, power plants and grids and even further implementations of energy supplies.

According to the World Bank, this staggering investment in Middle East will possibly account up to $30 Trillion in approximately 15 years. Likewise, the role of Asian Development Bank will be primal as Yuan is going to be internationalized in the economic world. Along this, this will create opportunities such as birth of jobs at local and international level, investment grounds for public and private parties. Naturally, this would be no less than a challenge, Geopolitical oscillation could lead to adverse footings but the freedoms of prosperity have much more outlooks than contorted situations in the region.

For instance, Chinese province of Zhejiang has already become an extensive hub for dealers of Syria and Africa. The Beijing’s aim is to diversify the economies of major exporters of oil such Saudi Arabia from oil to trade in order to bring them out from savage of other forces. To achieve this, Beijing has planned to industrialize the region by investing through Silk Road project. Explicitly, China is playing its role as leader by reducing the tensions between countries like Saudi Arabia and Iran as a mediator.


To sum up, China as a follower and admirer of Liberalism in the particular terms of Silk Road project is making democracy as the key card for reducing tensions and improving cooperation in these regions. China’s aim is to make the trade future of the world in place of the war. 
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at January 24, 2018 0

Indian absence from the pecuniary connectivity project has responded with some serious insecurity.

Sushma Swaraj, Foreign Minister of India

India a powerful state of the region has given out its statement regarding China’s greatest ever foreign project that will connect different regions of the world to the Asian market. Similarly, Chinese foreign policy goals are meant to be met alongside economic goals with this massive project.
India remained absent when Beijing hosted international forum of One-belt, One-road project. 

Explicitly, Indian Foreign Ministry released response over questions regarding absence. The statement pointed out following principles to be followed with infrastructural projects having such sort of investment and ambitions.

Ø  Norms , rule of law and good governance must be followed as recognized universally,
Ø  Openness, tranquility and equality should be practiced,
Ø  Financial responsibilities should be followed to avoid burdens on communities,
Ø  Transparency regarding the costs of project,
Ø  Skill and technological assistance should be provided to the other areas of regions,
Ø  The project must be pursued and completed that it may not harm the sovereignty and territorial integrity  of other states,
Ø  Ecological and environmental protection must be honored.

India strongly believes that CPEC do not meet the mentioned criteria. Additionally, the Minister said that his country will not attest any project that is going to harm its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Similarly, the country has repeated accusations on several occasions against the project. China aims to connect its western side of country with deep-water Gawadar Port. The only pathway to perform such action is through the Karakorum Highway: the road built in Pakistan with the help of China and officially opened in 1979.
Gawadar Port is ready to take off towards prestige 


Specifically, the highway runs through Gilgit Baltistan, which was earlier known as Northern Areas. The territory was originally a part of princely state of Jammu & Kashmir. Jammu & Kashmir is still holds a controversial status between India and Pakistan yet, some part of it (known as Azad Kashmir) is administered by Pakistan.

The territorial conflict explains the objection to CPEC, but India’s statement regarding the financial stability also holds an important concern.

Meanwhile, in Sri Lanka, China has assisted massively in infrastructural projects. Surprisingly, former Sri Lankan Government secretly negotiated regarding the investments and now the Sri Lankan debts payable to China are increased up to $8 Billions. Identically, Sri Lanka could pay the bills so it had to swap Hambantota Port in exchange. Consequently, this led to dissidence in Sri Lanka.

India is a strong believer that China has more political ambitions than economic. Indian Government is not happy with the price-tag adding that this is not a pleasant for the world.





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at January 24, 2018 0

Ayatollah Khomeini is 78 now and in poor health as well.

Ayatollah Khomeini is ill according to the reports

Earlier in January, this year Iran experienced the biggest dissidence since Green Revolution in 2009. Although, it shacked the structure of this clerical republic but it couldn’t throw massive impacts politically. Similarly, the movement had no clear goal or political objective to go for. Henceforth, the momentum of dissidents lost after couple of days. The civil society was behind the turmoil demanding political openness and freedom of activities.

Iran severely cracked down the protest by coercion. The demand for change is still not appreciated by Iran and its security forces and they are likely to tackle any such sort of objection in near future. But, there is some fortuity for change at the top. The biggest barrier and restriction in the way of change has been the Supreme leader Ayatollah Khomeini. Comparatively, this man has sponsored the cautious political approach and curbed the activities. But, the man is 78 now and is in the condition of poor health.  The question is what will happen to Iran if their Supreme leader dies?

Picking up the next leader

A three-member council will instantly take charge of their duties in case of Khomeini’s death or inability to perform functions. Iranian President, the head of Judiciary and a scholar of Guardian council are contained under the three-member council. They will take care of the responsibilities of supreme leader until the Assembly of Experts, announces the successor of Ayatollah Khomeini.

The Assembly members are elected by Iranians for the tenure of eight years.  There are basically three groups in which the assembly is divided: Pragmatists, Independents and Hardliners. As can be seen, the Independents seem important in choosing the succession for the reason that their vote can change the outcome. Additionally, many other factors can influence the process.

Shall we expect the Shift?

Iran is a clerical administrated state for about 40 years till now and the office of Supreme leader is a place of radical Muslims. Although, he advised his assembly that his successor must be a revolutionary and not a timid but assembly seems to be influenced by conservative approaches.
Hassan Rouhani, the President of Iran is a firm aspirant and candidate for the leadership. 
Hassan Rouhani is in power till 2020


Additionally, the chances of even higher if Khomeini dies for the reason that Rouhani would still be in his office till 2020, when his term expires. Similarly, as a member of the assembly of experts, the president has got potential to put leverage over other members.

Meanwhile, Iranian people who want to moderate their state from theocracy to democracy would still prefer him over a hardliner despite the fact they know Rouhani will not push up the change in radical setup.

Rouhani wants his country to be liberated from western influence yet, he wants to cooperate with them economically. To sum up, he wants his country to be an Islamic version of China with strong economy and military. By and large, if he makes up himself up for the task and gets the status of Supreme leader, Iran will experience the extensive transformation in every aspect.


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at January 23, 2018 0


In the latest phase of economics, the role of the South Asian Nations, and more specifically, Pakistan and India is gaining increasing importance. These southern giants are in the most perfect position to decide the regional superpower. Therefore, a list of empires and their behemoths planning considers these places as some of the vital places while drafting a successful plan.

Having this said, making this assertion will not be an exaggeration that the role of Pakistan and India is highly pivotal in determining the regional superpower.

Western Influences in this Perspective

US and Pakistan have been strategic allies for long.

The West has been a long ally of both of the nations in this region. However, Pakistan is associated with the land-locked countries of Afghanistan and potential terrorist safe havens. Therefore, it is considered to be a more important of an ally in the region for coalition against War on Terror. In this cause, both Pakistan and USA have cooperated to a strategic level to uproot the menace of terrorism.
Trump governance and its accusations have left Pakistan stunned.


However, as the Trump governance took place, the Pakistani sentiment was given a huge set of landing blows and the dependence their rival neighbors, India was asserted. Therefore, Pakistan was left in a state of shock before being kicked out of the coalition and imposing new bans and sanctions.

The Effect


Being already hurt by the behavior of US, Pakistan was seeking newer options for long. The US was not, and still does not pose to remain a strong base for strengthening Pakistan owing to its present state.

Pakistan therefore has looked into newer possibilities and exploration of newer horizons to further stabilize its economic and military needs.

The Rise of a Regional Ally

A regional ally took over when US left.
The disappointment and the backlash of US are not ending. Therefore, Pakistani plan of working out newer relations is going really strong so far. Pakistan in the past was already working with the Chinese in order to strengthen its military needs.

The Chinese side did not leave the Washington-Islamabad clashes unattended and initiated a new phase of diplomacy immediately after US hurt Pakistan. Both of the countries were developing a plan for a One Belt Road that increased the trade exposure of China to the rest of the World.

The Chinese took this opportunity to mine new projects in the Pakistani soil and enhance the growth of the area with the strong opportunities that came along. The Pakistanis were already looking for newer options, and a plan with a behemoth economic boost with no sanctions was highly encouraged by them. Unlike US, China was giving them something on a debt basis and not giving them anything in return.

Therefore, the regional superpower China took over the Pakistani soil with her influence and started investing in Pakistan for Her projects. Both of the countries have a very strong diplomacy and the respect for this alliance is relatively high.

The Effect


The rise of China in the region acted like a more realistic bench to the Pakistan. Shanghai and Islamabad signed a defense treaty, economic treaties and have opened trades which serve to develop both of the nations. This not an unknown fact that Chinese role in the dominance has been explosive since 2001.

Now, arming Pakistan with potentially stronger prospects, the Chinese aim to cut out the influence of US to establish a trading entity within Pakistan that serves to strengthen their economy.

Pakistan also looks at a 10 times stronger influx of funds and a potential opportunity for the nation to flourish to the highest levels of economy. Therefore, both of the nations mutually agreed working on this system and the project of CPEC was initiated.

Now, America is in a state of shock as the Chinese have successfully availed an opportunity that not only removes the dependence of Pakistan on US but also serves to be a better gain in the long run.

The Indian Role


Indian role in the region is not very strong due to its geography and political location. However, India can serve to become a pressure group wherever Pakistan needs to be pressurized.

The US knows about the long standing rivalry of these nations, and therefore is using India to make sure that the Pakistani dreams of seeing the might reach out to the highest skies. In the wake of this issue, India is developing the Chabahar Port in Iran to compete Pakistan’s Gwadar and is contributing in a proxy war in Pakistani territory.

Spies like Kalbhushan Yadav are a result of this struggle that are claimed to be responsible in the unrest of Pakistan.

Kalbhushan has been responsible for destabilization in Pakistani territory according to Pakistani officials.

However, on the other hand, Pakistan claims to possess a robust military and their operations against the terror cells and foreign elements attest to that. Not only did Pakistan bring stability into the region, but is also pursuing international intervention in the court to bring justice to its soil.
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at January 23, 2018 0

North Korea has assented to participate in the Winter Olympics to be held at Pyeongchang.

Winter Olympics to be held from 9 to 25 February 2018


A joint hockey team would be made by both of the states at the occasion of Olympics. Additionally, athletes from both sides will march under the same flag at the opening ceremony, which is on 9th of February. The teams will enter under a unification gesture and surely that moment would be hysterical for the entire world. Of course, the gesture shown by both sides will ease the tensions between them and could be proved vital for the future of Peninsula. Officials of both states are hopeful that the games will release the atmosphere of pressure between them.

South Korea has decided to send its athletes as a goodwill gesture to North Korean Ski resort for training. North Korean officials also will visit the South to scrutinize the facilities and preparations at the venues. Meanwhile, Northern side has promised to send a team of 550 delegates to participate in the Olympics. The squad will travel through land to reach at their destined point of Pyeongchang.

North Korean participation has put down the tensions to some extent as negotiated in talks. The process would prove as a diplomatic hijack that could bring peace in Korean Peninsula.
IOC meeting between North & South Korean Officials 


Moreover, North Korean weapon program has been a threat to world, which resulted in sanctions and warning to the dictator. Seoul despite the restrictions has made a first move to met Pyongyang at a border site has tremendously reduced the tension. Additionally, the discussion at that time proved vital and represented marked improvement in relations.


Despite the fears that Seoul has fallen for Pyongyang’s offensive strategies, South Korea has stated that The Olympic Games are always meant to reduce tensions, not to create and raise walls. These are about understanding, bilateral trust, cooperation and discussion. To sum up, the Games will hopefully open up the doors of trust, which will be essential for the peaceful future of this Peninsula, region and for the whole world. Southern side of Korea has urged the world to join in the festivity of hope. 
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at January 23, 2018 0

The weapons would prove a boost for Taiwan’s defense as it faces threat from mainland China.

US assistance to Taiwan is riling up China

Taiwan is ready to take the delivery of standard missiles, around 250 pieces of FIM-92 Stinger and other updated batches of arms to increase its military and naval capabilities.

Yesterday, Defense Ministry of Taiwan released a statement that this deal would be worth of $14 Billion. Coupled with, the consignment is on its way towards Taiwan.

The Stinger missiles could prove remarkable as they are light-weighed and can be easily fired from the shoulder. Additionally, they have got the versatility to fire from surface to earth. Similarly, they could be used in tanks and other vehicles. Used by militaries across the globe, the missiles were popularized by the United States in the 1980s. These missiles were used in profuse wars such as by Soviet Union during Afghan intrusion and in the Syrian civil war. The United States still has not used the missile at any time and there are some rumors about the missiles that they were manufactured to defend the America n President during a crucial situation.
FIM-92 Stinger Missile

The missiles are meant to contribute as the firepower to much-needed naval combat. The Taiwanese army will take the delivery of the weapons later this year. Former administration of United States in the tenure of Barack Obama cleared the way for such sorts of deals with Taiwan even relations of US with China were still cordial. Additionally, the fixed time for such contract agreement was from 2017 to 2020. The American institute in Taiwan signed the deal.

To sum up, Taiwan is convinced that this weapon delivery will boost up its military and naval capabilities in case of war with mainland China. Likewise, Taiwan will defend its territory in case of any possible invasion by China in future by discouraging the Chinese Liberation Army by its missile technology.


On the other hand, weapon delivery will surely exasperate China. By and large, The People Republic of China still holds its stance on the issue of Taiwan at all the platforms. Still, China is yet to throw a statement regarding the deal.
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at January 22, 2018 0
The tensions in the World are being escalated to a whole new level, with most of the powers turning into dust due to the presence of terrorist elements. The element of terrorism is gaining new support daily and the Muslim states are the ones being the most affected by this menace.

Observing the impending threat, KSA’s Crown-Prince Muhammad Bin Salman persuaded the nations of the World to make a new army that will restore the balance of power in the region for Muslim Nations by assisting in counter-terrorism efforts. 

The Islamic Nations are gathered in the inaugural meeting of the 41 Pan Islamic Coalition.

A Muslim NATO

In the inaugural meeting of the IMCTC, which is the name given to this coalition; the theme of ‘Allied Against Terrorism’ was adopted. Also, the first commander of this coalition and Pakistan’s ex-army chief, Gen Raheel Sharif expressed his thoughts about this step in the following way,

“A number of our member countries are under tremendous pressure while fighting well established terrorist organisations due to capacity shortages of their armed forces and law enforcement agencies,"
Sharif is the first commander of the IMCTC.

The alliance makes use of the resources and coordination between the Muslim nations to ensure that the Muslim World is terrorism free. This was considered owing to the fact that most of the nations that are unable to uproot the terrorism don’t possess enough resources and the level of synergy that is required to win this war.

Pakistan Heading the Army

Gen. Raheel is also hailed as the remarkable hero of the Islamabad's counter-terrorism ops. In his views, the ‘Fight’ against a faceless and extremist foe is extremely hard to accomplish alone. This is a feat, impossible without dedication and collaboration. And by only using these two powers, Pakistan overcame the menace of terrorism in Her boundaries. 
Pakistan has successfully shown its military might against the terrorist elements.

There are Cracks Too!

Despite the fact that this coalition was built by a unity of Islamic nations, there is still something very odd about this coalition. The countries of Iran, Iraq and Syria are still not included as members of this state. Even more shocking, Iran has taken it as a threat to her integrity and is currently protesting that this coalition is meant to increase the involvement of KSA in the region. 
KSA and Iran do not have a good relationship.

Analysis

The making of an army that can fight in the deterrence against terrorism is a very good idea. But the inclusion of Iran, Iraq and Syria is equally mysterious. Currently, Iraq is struggling against ISIS, Syria is in a state of high depression and Iran is the only country that asserts to be a representative of Shia Muslims in the region.

Being that said, the opposition of Iran would mean that the Shia elements of Pakistan are also not in the favor of this force, and therefore have a potential of provoking an uprising in the region.

Keeping these horrors aside, the rest of this setup is a very good one. There is a standing army from a diverse background that also enjoys a strong funding through regional economic behemoths.

This economy is something that is also provocative to the enemies. Iran is of the opinion that this is an anti-Shia army, however it is also being considered that this army can become an serious threat to the non-Muslim nations in the proximity too.

The war of words still continues and the IMCTC still works as a basic component of the World. Soon enough, this army will have a high role in the fight against terrorism for the minor nations.
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