Energy Cooperation in the Middle East in the Context of the Transition to a Multipolar World System

Abstract

Introduction: The paper deals with the transformation of energy cooperation in the Middle East in the context of the transition from a unipolar to a multipolar model of the world order. The focus is on the issue of rethinking the region’s traditional dependence on the West and finding new strategic partners to maintain its geopolitical influence.Methodology and materials: The research has employed a systemic and neo-realist approach to the analysis of international relations. The methodological framework involves a comparative historical analysis, institutional analysis (OPEC+, GCC), as well as the analysis of foreign policy strategies (Saudi Vision 2030, Russian Foreign Policy Concept 2023). The empirical basis of the study includes statistical data from OPEC, reports from international think tanks (Chatham House, RIAC), and some publications on the economy of the Middle East region.Results and discussion: The study has revealed that oil continues to play a system-forming role, but the nature of cooperation is changing. The Gulf countries (Saudi Arabia, the UAE) are using oil rent to diversify their economies and establish equal ties with new centers of power. It has been established that the approaches of external actors to the region differ: Russia acts as a “strategic balancer” through the OPEC+ mechanisms and military-technical cooperation, while China implements the economic and infrastructure model of “resources in exchange for development” (examples of Iraq and Saudi Arabia).Conclusions: The results obtained demonstrate that the multi-vector policy of the Middle Eastern states contributes to the accelerated formation of a polycentric world. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of using its findings to predict Russia’s strategies towards specific countries in the region (Iran, the UAE, and Qatar) and to optimize energy within the framework of the OPEC+ format.