Courtesy: wikimedia
The fall in oil prices is creating new complexities for the energy exporting economies of West Asia. With smaller profits, these countries may not be able to buy off political dissent at home and fund client governments and rebels abroad. Lower energy prices could also mean a renewed chance for peace
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Russia’s gas supply agreement with China represents a shift away from its traditional European markets, towards Asia. The deal presents a blue print that India can follow to secure its own energy supplies and by drawing Russia into the LNG business, India can help bring down natural gas prices
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Growing instability in the region make the planned Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline seem more like a burden than a solution to India’s hunt for alternative energy sources. Is it wise for India to move ahead with the $7.6 billion project?
India’s relations with Russia have to be set against the broader strategic landscape of India’s security issues and geopolitical priorities, especially in Central Asia and Afghanistan, where Russia is a key player. An increase in private sector initiatives can also ensure greater cooperation in the years to come.