Tribune News Network
Doha
Qatar University (QU), represented by the Gulf Studies Center, part of the College of Arts and Sciences, along with the Center of International and Regional Studies at Georgetown University in Qatar (GU-Q), organised a joint conference titled, ‘Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine: Assessments, Implications, Prospects’.
The conference convened with leading experts in economics and international relations to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and its far-reaching consequences on the global system of international relations, with special emphasis on perspectives from the GCC and the broader Middle East.
The conference explored the diverse viewpoints on the conflict’s implications and assessed its impact on the interests of Global North and Global South nations, in addition to exploring regional responses from the Middle East and Arab Gulf countries. Through direct and candid discussions, experts analysed the complex interplay between Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and its influence on the international system and global economic relations
Director of the Gulf Studies Center, Dr Maryam Al-Kuwari, commented, “The impact of Putin’s war in Ukraine on the GCC economies has been at the centre of researchers’ attention for quite a while. However, it is still possible to say that the full picture has rarely been described. Traditionally, researchers’ attention is bound to two issues: increased incomes of the GCC hydrocarbon exporters and intensification of contacts between Moscow and the Arab Gulf states. Yet, the reality is far more complicated and the goal of this event us to demonstrate this complexity it by putting the story of the Gulf states within the wider context of regional and international context.”
Research Associate Professor in Gulf Studies Center, Dr Nikolay Kozhanov, added, “This is a very timely event. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has significantly reshaped the international system and global economic relations. Notably, access to global energy markets has been restricted, impacting both major suppliers and consumers as well as prompting a reconfiguration of global supply chains. The conflict has exacerbated pre-existing economic issues, particularly those stemming from the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a multi-crisis environment. The war has also led to the “weaponization” of the global economy, as both Russia and its opponents leverage economic measures against each other, challenging the principles of a liberal market. The situation remains uncertain and it is extremely important for the GCC countries to be aware of the ongoing changes and adjust to them accordingly.”
The event brought together regional and international thought leaders to deepen the understanding of these issues, fostering informed discourse on potential solutions for decision-makers.
Nearly three years since the onset of the conflict, the forum also highlighted the lack of consensus among global actors regarding Russia’s involvement and its effects on the international system.
