For the first time in decades, a window exists for Europe to take care of its own defence. But as Fabrice Pothier discovers, Macron’s vision of a European army requires reforms to EU institutions.
https://www.iiss.org/blogs/analysis/2019/01/macron-european-army-reality
Fabrice Pothier
United Kingdom Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt delivered the 34th IISS Fullerton Lecture in Singapore reflecting on Britain’s relationship with its allies after Brexit. As the UK prepares to leave the European Union, Mr Hunt said the example of Singapore had much to offer the UK. ‘Britain can draw encouragement from how Singapore’s separation from the Peninsula did not make it more insular but more open.’ Looking ahead to the New Year, Mr Hunt said there was plenty of evidence to suggest that the so-called rules-based international order is under threat, and that democracy is in retreat.
https://www.iiss.org/events/2019/01/fullerton-lecture-britain-role-post-brexit-world
US President Donald Trump looks set to pull the United States out of the Iran nuclear deal, say Mark Fitzpatrick and Dana Allin.
China’s recent fleet review showcased the country’s impressive and accelerating naval shipbuilding output. In the last four years, China has launched naval vessels equivalent to or greater than the total fleet tonnages of many of the world’s major established naval powers.
The Italian military is taking on a greater role in Africa, while reducing its presence in Asia and the Middle East.
Leaders in Addis Ababa hope the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam can transform the country’s fortunes. But the project has caused alarm downriver.
By Caitlin Vito, Coordinator for the Deputy Director-General’s Office
The discovery of large quantities of oil and gas off the coast of Bahrain may alter the country’s economic fortunes.
By Pierre Noël, Senior Fellow for Economic and Energy Security
