The Middle East

The world’s largest exporter of liquefied natural gas (LNG) is spreading its wings into energy ventures far from the vast reserves on its own doorstep. Qatar is investing in shale-related projects in North America and elsewhere to help maintain its position as one of the top players in the global gas market.

Turkey's deputy prime minister Ali Babacan recently spoke with OBG on the country's economic performance and 2023 development objectives.

A double pipeline that will channel oil to Jordan from Iraq is expected to play a key role in the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify and strengthen its energy sources.

The Kuwait Stock Exchange (KSE) had a positive start to 2013, with the index steadily moving up to reach multi-year highs in May. While local investors are driving much of the recent activity, foreign capital is increasingly flowing into the Gulf’s third-largest bourse. Plans to privatise the exchange could also boost the KSE’s international profile.

With the launch of a new stock exchange, Borsa Istanbul, Turkey has taken one more step towards achieving its goal of becoming a regional financial centre.

A billion-dollar pipeline project, which should be completed within the next three months, is set to play a key part in helping Jordan tackle its water security issues.