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Indian Ocean SWA Articles

Pakistan Claims US Ties Repaired as Afghanistan Troop Withdrawal Looms

Pakistan’s Foreign Minister has said that US-Pakistan security ties have been repaired. With the looming US troop withdrawal in Afghanistan, Washington will welcome the warmer ties, although several key challenges remain.

Pakistan Successfully Tests Hatf-V Missile

The testing of the Ghauri/Hatf-V missile on 28 November 2012 has demonstrated Islamabad’s intent to continue developing its nuclear capability. Without a sophisticated anti-ballistic missile system, India faces pressure over its ability to respond to, or nullify, Pakistan’s nuclear missile programme.

South Africa: Zuma Safe, Attention now on the Role of Deputy President

Leading businessman and influential ANC official Cyril Ramaphosa, is now the frontrunner to be South Africa’s next deputy president. While this is perhaps worrying for long-time ANC members, his business experience may be just what is needed.

Pakistan Divided as Violence, Unrest Continues Amid Religious Holiday

Sectarian violence continues in Pakistan, as fears grow that an escalation of hostilities is likely and authorities are not doing enough to protect the country’s Shiite minority.

Weapons and Politics as Iran Attempts to Expand Sphere of Influence

The Gaza Conflict of 14-21 November 2012 has showcased the use by Hamas of Iranian missiles to strike deep into the Israeli heartland. The greatest lesson to be learned from this conflict is not about Palestinians or Israelis, but of attempts by Iran to expand its influence.

South Africa: Democratic Alliance Promotes New Blood, Sets Sights on Economic Hub

South Africa’s Democratic Alliance opposition has refreshed its leadership team to better reflect its membership, as it prepares to take on the ruling ANC government in Gauteng Province at the 2014 elections.

Obama’s Visit to Burma: Not Just About China

Barak Obama’s visit to Burma may have reflected Washington’s recent “pivot” towards Asia, but it should not be seen simply in terms of any US strategic competition with China.

Kenya: Election Violence Approaching?

In coming months, ethnic violence will be a key challenge for the Kenyan Government. This prospect is of particular concern with elections scheduled for March 2013. 

Unrest Continues in Bahrain as Conditions Worsen

Unrest continues in Bahrain as conditions worsen and the conflicting interests of Arab states and the West continue to hamper any meaningful change.

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New Delhi-Islamabad-Kabul: Can They Make Borders Irrelevant?

Afghan President Hamid Karzai used his recent visit to India to push for greater Indian investment in his country while being careful not to alienate Pakistan. The potential exists for Kabul to be a catalyst for further Indo-Pakistani rapprochement.