The Sino-Pakistani relationship was forged out of a common desire to limit India. It has since grown beyond that goal, even though it continues to underscore the relationship. The danger for Pakistan, however, is that it could grow over-dependent on China.

The second half of the twentieth century witnessed the re-emergence of China and India as major actors on the world stage.

In Afghanistan, China recognises several economic and strategic opportunities to advance its goals in the region and beyond, including the opportunity to acquire access to much of Afghanistan’s mineral wealth.

The current demonstrations in Iran could prove to be a watershed in the Islamic Revolution. The theocrats have been shocked by the demands from the demonstrators calling for their removal. Given the deep currents of dislike for the theocracy among many ordinary Iranians, it is difficult to see how the ayatollahs will placate the demonstrators.

Saudi Arabia is undergoing profound social change instigated by King Salman and his son, Crown Prince Mohammed. This paper examines the factors that may have brought about the need for change and some of their possible consequences.