Resource Politics

Suriname sits on the northern coast of South America, but its official language is Dutch. It is the only independent country in South America where Dutch is used in government, schools, courts, and official business.   At first glance, that may seem like an unusual colonial legacy. In reality, it reveals something much deeper. Suriname’s language reflects a history shaped by empire, migration, slavery, and independence. Today, that l...

Central Asia has long depended on rivers fed by mountain glaciers to support its cities, farms, and industries. Today, that system is under pressure.   Rising temperatures, shrinking glaciers, and growing demand for water are creating new challenges across the region. While Central Asia is often described as water-rich, experts increasingly warn that the real problem is not only how much water exists, but whether enough will be available w...

Malaysia is expanding its long-term energy presence deeper into Central Asia, with Petroliam Nasional Bhd, also known as Petronas, securing access to major gas fields in Turkmenistan.   On June 19, 2026, an agreement was reached following close engagement between Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and Turkmenistani President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, building on more than 30 years of Malaysia-Turkmenistan energy cooperation. The deal reflects both ...

Turkey and Indonesia are moving beyond traditional diplomacy and trying to build a long-term strategic partnership. During talks on June 3, 2026, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto welcomed Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for discussions covering trade, defense, energy, transportation, artificial intelligence, and halal industries.   Indonesian diplomats say the countries are aiming to boost their bilateral trade to a stunning $1...

On June 15, 2026, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) announced the beginning of a two-day visit with Russia's President, Vladimir Putin. With talks being held in Kazan (Russia), both counterparts are aiming to strengthen ties based on food and energy security, two relevant matters of mutual interest.   This announcement comes at a time where the Philippines, and other South-East Asian nations, are actively seeking new economic and mil...