Foreign economic and foreign policy relations of Ukraine with the countries of the Persian Gulf

Abstract

The Persian Gulf region countries are  of great importance due to the significant role of ensuring global energy supplies. This review outlines the contemporary role of these countries in the modern system of international relations along with the role of energy diplomacy as a key instrument of their foreign policy. In addition, this region is actively implementing new technologies and investing in advanced sectors in order to diversify its economic activities, including the development of green energy and tourism. The development of potential cooperation with this region may contribute not only to Ukraine’s economic development, but may help to strengthen our international position.

The current situation with foreign economic cooperation remains strictly limited. It is largely due to the absence of targeted efforts on the part of Ukraine, which has traditionally focused its cooperation primarily on European countries. Since the outbreak of military actions in Ukraine, the countries of the region have generally maintained a neutral position regarding the parties to the conflict. However, they have indirectly participated in the negotiation process between the parties involved. The deepening of Ukrainian diplomatic relations with the countries of the region took place after the escalation of tensions between the countries of the region and Iran. It happened particularly in connection with the use of Ukrainian unmanned aerial vehicles in defense-related processes. Cooperation in the field of military technologies has already demonstrated its effectiveness and has been reinforced by a number of long-term agreements. In perspective,  it may become a key factor in the formation of new partnerships, as well as in strengthening of Ukrainian security amid growing tensions in the international arena.

Also, Ukraine expects support from the countries of the region regarding issues related to the Russian-Ukrainian war. It may consider investments in economic reconstruction projects of drone production, the attraction of advanced technologies, and assistance in expanding markets for Ukrainian agricultural products in the region. Since the concluded long-term agreements in the field of security envisage the deepening of cooperation with these countries, it is important to study not only the pros but also the cons associated with cooperation with the countries of the region. This includes cross-cultural differences, requirements regarding product quality, business processes, and other relevant factors. It is also necessary to take into account the specific features of political culture, as all the countries of the region are monarchies. Ukrainian business does not yet have sufficient experience in cooperation with the countries of the region. Therefore, the development of foreign economic relations with the Persian Gulf countries constitutes an important and promising area of research.