Asia and the Middle East (MENASIA) Beyond Energy:

The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has long been shaped by the interests of major global powers. Traditionally, Western powers, particularly the United States and a number of European countries, have played dominant roles in the region’s defense frameworks and security architecture. However, recent years have seen a notable shift in this dynamic, with Asian countries emerging as significant stakeholders in the Middle East’s security and defense. 

MENA-Asia (hereafter MENASIA) defense cooperation has witnessed considerable developments over the last couple of years. Asia’s widening security role in the Middle East can primarily be attributed to strengthening economic ties between both regions. The Middle East has also become an integral market for Asian arms exports. 

Against this backdrop, the Middle East Council on Global Affairs (ME Council) and the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) coorganized a workshop that seeks to analyze the evolving role of Asian countries in the security and defense of the Middle East. Participants explored key questions including: What is catalyzing the growth of Asia-Middle East defense cooperation? How will rising geopolitical tensions across the Middle East impact security ties? What are the limitations of Asia-Middle East defense cooperation? How can/are the Asian powers contributing to re-shaping the region’s security architecture? What role can Asian powers play in de-escalating ongoing conflicts in Gaza and elsewhere across the region?