Gulf Cooperation Council

Trade, investment, energy, and technology lie at the heart of strengthening Gulf-Asian relations

From Kuwait to Oman, the Gulf states are building railway links to connect their ports, cities, and industry, but it is a $250bn project that requires political determination. Will it ever happen?

As a costly war draws to a close, Tehran has the chance to chart a new course in relation to its neighbours, but that requires a change of mindset

Differing priorities, values, and interpretations have led to a trust deficiency on both sides of the Gulf for decades, but the US war on Iran brought those festering issues to the fore

Tehran prioritises foreign power and influence, whereas the Gulf states prioritise economic development and stability. The presence of foreign bases in the Gulf is just an excuse.

Closing the Strait of Hormuz has shown how the Gulf should shift from an oil-export model to a digital and distribution hub. Will this trigger the long-delayed free trade agreement with China?

The US-Israeli war against Iran aims to draw in Gulf states, but history has shown that entering wars is far easier than exiting them. Prudence is needed now more than ever.

The Gulf states are showing that their security is indivisible and that they will pursue their defence from any that offer it, creating a new 'strategic autonomy' borne of the Trump era.

More than $75bn of construction projects were awarded in Gulf states last year, with much more expected, but the cranes across Riyadh, Muscat, and Dubai are building more than just skylines.

From dhows carrying spices to tankers carrying oil, trade between South Asia and Arabia has been healthy for hundreds of years, with room to grow further.