Chatham House: China’s Struggle for Influence in Central Asia. How is Beijing aiming to reshape the region?

The Chatham House meeting, chaired by Annette Bohr, features authors Edward Lemon and Bradley Jardine discussing their book on China’s influence in Central Asia. The conversation encompasses China’s role, historical ties, regional nationalism, and the impact of protests. The complexities of relationships with Russia, the US, and other nations are highlighted, alongside issues of human rights and regional stability.

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Chatham House: One year of Syria’s transition: Progress, challenges and prospects

PHOTO: The new Syrian Government Today’s Chatham House meeting is chaired by Raya Jalabi, Middle East Correspondent, Financial Times. On the panel are: Dr Haid Haid, MENA Programme, Rime Allaf, Syrian writer, formerly Chatham House and Dr Ibrahim Al-Assil, Belfer Center, Harvard University. It is a year since the rapid…

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Chatham House: What does Russia want in the Black Sea region?

This Chatham House roundtable discussion is chaired by Hugo Dixon, Reuters. On the panel are: Galip Dalay, Turkey Initiative, MENA Programme and Natalie Sabanadze, Russia and Eurasia Programme. Galip and Natalie have done a report on ‘Russia’s Black Sea Strategy’. The entire European security architecture is under scrutiny in the…

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Chatham House: Mike Pence, 48th Vice President of the United States, speaks at Chatham House

Mike Pence shared insights on U.S. foreign policy at Chatham House, emphasizing the importance of strong transatlantic ties amid rising global tensions with Russia and China. He highlighted the need for America to lead while addressing issues like public debt and immigration reform. Pence asserted that strong alliances and values are crucial for global stability.

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Chatham House: A foreign policy for the new Syria

Asaad al-Shaibani, Syria’s foreign minister, outlines post-civil war plans to rebuild international relations and internal governance. The new regime aims for inclusivity, economic investment, and transitional justice while addressing community trust. He emphasizes a pragmatic approach towards rebuilding, focusing on diplomatic ties, especially with the UK and Turkey, amidst regional challenges.

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Chatham House: Turkey’s evolving role in Libya

Recent violence in Libya highlights Turkey’s growing political and military influence there. Turkey aims to be a regional power, pursuing security assistance and economic interests. Despite temporary conflict resolution efforts, tensions persist, raising concerns about a potential war. Turkey faces dilemmas with local power dynamics while navigating complex foreign relationships and corruption risks.

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Connections and Disconnections on City Road, Cardiff

The content discusses the concept of ‘making and remaking’ through the experiences of three individuals on City Road, Cardiff. Nof Al-Kelaby showcases resilience by adapting his business to new demographics. Shari Hall enhances local businesses through her blog, fostering virtual connections. John exemplifies the challenges of homelessness, highlighting complex social dynamics.

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Erdoğan’s Third Term as President of Turkey and What It Means

On May 28th 2023, Recep Tayyip ErdoÄŸan was giving a victory speech to the excited Turkish masses, who had democratically elected him to a third term as President of Turkey. He achieved 52.2% of the vote in  the second round of elections compared with the 47.8% of the challenger, Kemal…

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Review: Turkish Awakening – A Personal Discovery of Modern Turkey – by Alev Scott

Alev Scott is a young female Brit whose mother has Turkish Cypriot roots and in this great study of modern turkey she relocates to Istanbul and immerses herself as much as possible in Turkish society Long time leader Erdogan, has done a lot to change Turkey in the past couple…

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Review: Atatürk – The Rebirth of a Nation – by Patrick Kinross

Mustafa Kemal Atatürk was from humble beginnings. He lived through a critical period of Turkish history, witnessing the decline and fall of the Ottoman Empire and making it possible for the modern secular, Western-focused nation state of Turkey to phoenix itself from the Ashes. Atatürk was a military man and…

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Kosovo – Independence

I’m still unsure exactly what to be doing with my blog… Do I keep it to just music? Or football? Or everything in my life? My idea of a blog is an online diary, somewhere to air your thoughts. I guess sometimes that thinking can be controversial. The blog is…

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