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on MENA - Middle East and North Africa |
| By: | Schulze, Meike; Schrolle, Mark |
| Abstract: | Saudi Arabia has entered the geopolitical competition for mineral resources - and it has done so in a determined manner and with substantial funds at its disposal. As part of its Vision 2030, the Kingdom aims to strengthen local processing and industrial value added. Currently, Saudi Arabia secures its mineral resources through international investments and offtake agreements; but, in the long term, it plans to develop its domestic mining industry. Many initiatives remain in the conceptual phase. As it looks to realise its ambitions, Saudi Arabia continues to rely on international partners. Positioning itself as a geopolitically neutral "link" between the major powers, the Kingdom is seeking closer ties with China while at the same time competing with the People's Republic. Simultaneously, it presents itself to the West as a potential partner for resource diversification. The EU appears to regard cooperation with Saudi Arabia as a viable option for securing its raw material supply. However, the key conditions for a strategic partnership have still not been met. |
| Keywords: | Saudi Arabia, Mineral Supply Chains, Saudi Arabian Mining Company (Ma'aden), "Vision 2030", European Union (EU), mining industry, China, resource diversification, Critical Raw Materials Act (CRMA), Saudi Public Investment Fund (PIF), gold, phosphate, bauxite, copper, zinc, feldspar, silver, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), EU Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), International Governmental Forum on Mining and Minerals (IGF) |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:swpcom:306295 |
| By: | Jamaledini, Ashkan; Bayat, Alireza |
| Abstract: | In recent years, sustainable development has emerged as a cornerstone of global development efforts, emphasizing ecological preservation alongside economic growth. Developed countries have long prioritized sustainable practices, integrating environmental conservation, resource management, and social equity into their policies. This commitment addresses critical global challenges, including climate change and resource depletion, while striving to balance growth and ecological preservation. Oil-rich nations in the Persian Gulf, such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, are also advancing sustainability by diversifying their economies and reducing reliance on fossil fuels. These countries are leveraging their renewable energy potential to transition towards cleaner energy systems. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 aims to generate 50% of its energy from renewable sources by 2030, with significant investments in solar and wind projects. The UAE leads with initiatives like the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park and Barakah Nuclear Power Plant, while Qatar invests heavily in solar technologies. These efforts highlight how clean energy technologies and sustainable strategies foster innovation, environmental preservation, and economic diversification. By adopting renewable energy, Gulf nations exemplify how sustainability can drive a greener future. Together, global efforts underscore the shared responsibility of ensuring a sustainable world for future generations. |
| Keywords: | Sustainable development, Development studies, Environmental preservation; Developed countries; Policy frameworks; National agendas; Environmental protection. |
| JEL: | A1 A10 Q0 Q4 Q40 Q47 |
| Date: | 2024–12–01 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:pra:mprapa:123077 |
| By: | Mohammad Reza Farzanegan (School of Business and Economics, Philipps-Universität Marburg); Jerg Gutmann (University of Hamburg) |
| Abstract: | This study investigates the case of Iran to evaluate how changes in the intensity of international sanctions affect internal conflict in the target country. Estimating a vector autoregressive model for the period between 2001q2 and 2020q3 with quarterly data on internal conflict and its three subcomponents (civil disorder, terrorism, and civil war) as well as a sanction intensity index, we find that an unexpected increase in sanction intensity causes an increase in both civil disorder and terrorism risk. In contrast, the risk of civil war declines after an increase in sanction intensity. These findings for Iran indicate that higher intensity sanctions may allow sender country governments to put pressure on target country political regimes without risking an outbreak of major violent conflicts. Therefore, more intensive sanctions, may also not be helpful in inducing violent regime change. |
| Keywords: | Sanctions, sanction intensity, internal conflict, civil disorder, terrorism, civil war, VAR model, Iran. |
| JEL: | D74 F51 |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:mar:magkse:202420 |
| By: | Meryem Gökten (The Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, wiiw); Richard Grieveson (The Vienna Institute for International Economic Studies, wiiw) |
| Abstract: | Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, Turkey has adeptly navigated a balancing act between Russia and the West, leveraging its position as a credible mediator. However, Turkey’s geo-economic vulnerabilities and strong economic ties with the West have made this approach untenable, especially given the recent escalation in pressure from the United States. As the US adopts a firmer stance and Turkey starts to distance itself from Russia, the implications for the European Union’s strategy towards Turkey become increasingly important, presenting an opportunity to revitalise relationships. However, relations may sour again owing to stalled progress in relations and ongoing regional instability. Turkey's vocal stance against Israel and the war in Gaza underlines its dissatisfaction with US and EU responses, but at present the country has only limited leverage to effect change. The EU needs to adopt a proactive stance towards Turkey, moving beyond waiting for a post-Erdoğan era, and establish new forms of engagement other than EU accession. A modernisation of EU-Turkey customs rules is long overdue and would benefit both sides. Given Turkey’s geopolitical significance and NATO membership, it is crucial for the EU to maintain relations with the country to prevent it from aligning more closely with Moscow and Beijing. |
| Keywords: | Turkey, EU, foreign trade, customs union, sanctions, investment |
| JEL: | F14 F50 F51 O10 O53 |
| Date: | 2024–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:wii:pnotes:pn:90 |
| By: | Karen Davtyan (Departament d'Economia Aplicada, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)); Omar Elkaraksy (Departament d'Economia Aplicada, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona (UAB)) |
| Abstract: | We evaluate the financial effects of monetary policy over the transition period from a fixed to a floating exchange rate regime in Egypt. The baseline evaluation is implemented through an event study methodology (high frequency identification) by estimating the effects of monetary policy announcements on financial indicators. The results reveal that a currency devaluation leads to a significant increase in stock prices. A change in the monetary policy interest rate significantly affects treasury yields. It takes more time for treasury yields with longer maturities to reflect the effects of monetary policy announcements. The results are mainly driven by the period when the exchange rate regime was closer to a floating system. The results also highlight the importance of politically and economically stable environment for the efficient transmission of monetary policy. |
| Keywords: | monetary policy, financial markets, exchange rate regime, developing economy, Egypt |
| Date: | 2024–12 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:uab:wprdea:wpdea2407 |
| By: | Ferid Belhaj |
| Abstract: | In an era marked by shifting global dynamics, Africa and the Middle East are experiencing a profound transition from traditional geopolitics to a more nuanced geoeconomic framework. This evolution reflects the growing recognition that economic interests, rather than mere political allegiances, are driving international relations in these regions. The rise of emerging powers, particularly China and other Asian nations, has challenged the long-standing dominance of Western economies, offering alternatives that prioritize infrastructure development and trade over political conditionality. As governments in Africa and the Middle East seek to maximize their economic potential, they are increasingly inclined to engage in partnerships that enhance their sovereignty and promote self-reliance. The implications of this shift are profound, heralding a new chapter in international cooperation in which economic collaboration is viewed as the pathway to stability and growth. This paper explores the ramifications of this transition, examining how the focus on geoeconomics is reshaping diplomatic ties, investment flows, and regional integration initiatives. It argues that this paradigm shift not only empowers Africa and the Middle East, but also redefines the global landscape, as these regions assert themselves as key players in the emerging multipolar world. |
| Date: | 2024–10 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:ocp:pbecon:pb_48-24 |
| By: | Kurtz, Gerrit; Roll, Stephan; Lossow, Tobias$cvon |
| Abstract: | In recent months, relations between Ethiopia, Egypt, and Somalia have deteriorated significantly. Previously separate disputes have become intertwined: namely the conflict between Egypt and Ethiopia over the use of Nile waters and the disagreement between Ethiopia and Somalia regarding the recognition of Somaliland. The three countries use threats to improve their respective positions in these conflicts. While an interstate military escalation does not seem imminent at present, regional tensions are likely to rise, which could further empower the jihadist Al-Shabaab militia in Somalia. Germany and the European Union (EU) should recognise the highly complex interdependence of these lines of conflict, remind the countries concerned of their common interest in stabilising Somalia, and continue to advocate for dialogue in the Nile dispute. At the same time, it is also important to hold other influential actors more accountable to contribute to regional stability. |
| Keywords: | Horn of Africa, Ethiopia, Egypt, Somalia, Nile waters, recognition of Somaliland, jihadist Al-Shabaab militia, Abiy Ahmed, African Union (AU), Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), Nile River Basin Commission (NRBC), Hassan Sheikh Mohamud, Ogaden National Liberation Front (ONLF) |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:zbw:swpcom:306283 |
| By: | Hadjer Haned (ENSSEA - Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d'Economie Appliquée [Tipaza]); Saloua Chaouche (ENSSEA - Ecole Nationale Supérieure de Statistique et d'Economie Appliquée [Tipaza]) |
| Abstract: | In the modern field of economic analysis, structural analysis techniques have emerged as invaluable tools for monitoring and understanding the structure of the economics' sectors dynamic. This article analyses structural change in the Algerian economy for the period 2015 -2021, based on a series of input-output tables. For this purpose, we used the powerful Rasmussen's structural decomposition method to inspect the structure of the economy and examined the evolving internal complexity of relationships and interdependencies, using key sector analysis to assess the strength of forward and backward linkages. The objective was to gain insights into the dynamics of this economy and to evaluate the extent to which it has undergone changes during this critical period witness of a multifaceted crisis. The findings from our analysis provide support for the hypothesis that the structural framework of the economy remained relatively stable over this period. While the broader structure exhibited signs of continuity, our investigation also revealed a modest enhancement in the cross-sector connections within the economy. These results could be used as a strong tool in terms of the relationships and interactions among various sectors, for the country's economic resilience and prospects for diversification. Indeed, over time we would expect economic growth and development to coincide with increasing internal complexity and perhaps durability. |
| Keywords: | Structural change economics' diversification multifaceted crisis Rasmussen's method key sectors, Structural change, economics' diversification, multifaceted crisis, Rasmussen's method, key sectors |
| Date: | 2024–12–05 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04820643 |
| By: | Islem Saadaoui (TVES - Territoires, Villes, Environnement & Société - ULR 4477 - ULCO - Université du Littoral Côte d'Opale - Université de Lille) |
| Abstract: | This study explores the economic value of Aleppo pine forests, a unique and threatened ecosystem in the border region of central Tunisia. These forests play a vital role in supporting small rural communities, but face increasing pressures and restrictions on their use. This research aims to assign a monetary value to forest conservation, considering the region's specific socio-economic context. Strategies for empowering local residents as key actors in developing sustainable cross-border initiatives are further investigated. Employing the Contingent Valuation Method, a survey of 350 local residents and international users was conducted to assess their Willingness to Pay for forest conservation efforts. Logistic regression analysis revealed that sociodemographic factors, such as monthly income and preferred payment method, significantly influence both and the likelihood of participation. These findings highlight the feasibility and importance of reconciling economic development with ecological sustainability in this critical region. |
| Keywords: | Economic assessment Ecosystem service Regional planning Cross-border development initiative Contingent valuation method, Economic assessment, Ecosystem service, Regional planning, Cross-border development initiative, Contingent valuation method |
| Date: | 2024 |
| URL: | https://d.repec.org/n?u=RePEc:hal:journl:hal-04849786 |