EUROMESCO-中东和北非的基础设施和电力（英文）-2020.9-100页_4mb

报告摘要

Summary of "Infrastructures and Power in the Middle East and North Africa"

Core Content

This Joint Policy Study by the European Institute of the Mediterranean (IEMed) explores the geopolitical significance of infrastructures in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, highlighting how they reflect global and regional power dynamics. The study is part of the MENARA project and focuses on four key domains of infrastructure geopolitics: maritime infrastructures, energy infrastructures, MENA flag carriers, and virtual spaces.

The report emphasizes that infrastructure is not merely a technical or economic factor, but a strategic tool that influences political, military, and economic relations. It argues that understanding the geopolitics of infrastructure is essential for grasping broader geopolitical shifts in the MENA region, especially in the context of global power competition, technological changes, and environmental concerns.

Main Points and Key Information

1. Global and Regional Geopolitical Shifts

Geopolitical competition is intensifying, driven by great power rivalry and the disruptive impact of new technologies.
The MENA region has undergone significant social, political, and economic transformations since 2011, leading to increased volatility and uncertainty.
Infrastructures (military or civilian, physical or virtual) are central to these shifts, as they enable control over transportation, communication, and energy.
Global trends such as decarbonisation, technological advancement, and the rise of non-Western powers (e.g., China, Russia) are reshaping the geopolitical landscape of the region.

2. Maritime Infrastructures and the Mediterranean

The Mediterranean Sea is a strategic chokepoint for global trade, with 20% of global shipping passing through its ports.
Port systems are vital to economic development, especially with the growth of transshipment activities.
The Suez Canal is a critical artery for Asia-Europe trade, and its modernisation has significantly increased its capacity and efficiency.
Tanger-Med in Morocco has emerged as a key transshipment hub, playing a pivotal role in economic revitalisation and attracting foreign investments.
China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is heavily invested in the Mediterranean region, especially through port development and maritime connectivity.

3. Energy Infrastructures and Geopolitical Conflicts

Energy infrastructure such as pipelines, refineries, and LNG terminals is central to regional and global power dynamics.
The Eastern Mediterranean is a geopolitical hotspot due to energy competition, especially between Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, and Israel.
Infrastructure projects in this region often reflect broader geopolitical tensions, such as the Turkish Stream and East Med Gas Pipeline.
The EU's energy security is increasingly dependent on MENA energy infrastructure, and it faces competition from China in this domain.

4. MENA Flag Carriers and Soft Power

Flag carriers are not only economic entities but also tools of soft power.
They serve as diplomatic instruments, helping to project national influence and build international partnerships.
The role of civil society and private actors in infrastructure development is gaining importance, especially in cooperation and conflict resolution.

5. Virtual Spaces and Cyber Geopolitics

Cyber infrastructure and virtual spaces are becoming new arenas for geopolitical competition.
The Gulf region is particularly affected, with cyber competition intensifying due to the strategic importance of digital networks.
The EU must address the gaps in its cyber policy and develop legislative responses to manage the risks and opportunities in this domain.

EU's Role and Challenges

The EU is well-positioned to promote cooperation and peace in the MENA region through infrastructure development.
However, it faces challenges due to regional instability, geopolitical competition, and lack of comprehensive policy tools.
Strategic investments in maritime, energy, and digital infrastructures can help the EU build trust, economic ties, and political stability in the region.
The EU's geopolitical vision must evolve to include conflict prevention, cooperation mechanisms, and multi-stakeholder engagement.

Conclusion

Infrastructure development in the MENA region is intertwined with geopolitical strategies and power competition.
The EU has the potential to lead in promoting cooperation and sustainable development through strategic investments and policy initiatives.
The pandemic has delayed but not stopped these developments, as the EU continues to prioritise its geopolitical engagement in the region.
A regional approach to infrastructure policy is essential for the EU to leverage its influence and promote peace and integration.

Key Domains of the Study

Maritime Infrastructures: Focus on ports, transshipment, and the strategic importance of the Mediterranean.
Energy Infrastructures: Highlight pipelines, refineries, and geopolitical conflicts in the Eastern Mediterranean.
MENA Flag Carriers: Analyze their role in soft power and international relations.
Virtual Spaces: Explore cyber competition, digital infrastructure, and the geopolitical implications in the Gulf.

Implications for the EU

The EU must enhance its geopolitical role to address the challenges and seize the opportunities presented by MENA infrastructures.
Strategic investment and cooperative infrastructure projects can de-escalate tensions and foster integration.
Legislative and policy improvements are needed to address cyber risks and protect European interests in the region.