In this episode I spoke with Artem Adrianov, researcher on Arab affairs, consultant to business on the region, as well as expert at the Institute for International Studies at MGIMO University and project manager at the Primakov Center for International Cooperation. Artem was the host of the hit Russian-language podcast “The Oriental Express” for the Primakov Center, is the author of the telegram channel “All is well in Dubai”, has authored articles for Forbes, Vedomosti and other top media outlets. He is also regularly featured in both Russian and international media.

Artem and I focused on the rising power of Gulf countries in Africa, what they are doing right and wrong, how their strategies enhance African development needs and why they are able to position themselves as key mediators for conflicts on the continent. 

Timecodes:

4:09 Why the Gulf countries are interested in Africa today, their strategic goals

10:38 Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries' best practices in the region 

18:12 The geographic and influence breakdown amongst GCC countries in Africa.  

21:21 The “friendly regime” dilemma in providing support to African countries 

24:52 How big is the African security issue for Gulf states?

26:55 Qatar's credibility as a mediator in conflict in Africa and beyond 

29:56 Artem's vision for how Africa-Gulf relations will evolve over the short to medium term future