Russia, Ukraine and gas: Pipe down. Science & Environment. Middle East. Author and Page information by Anup ShahThis Page Last Updated Tuesday, December 06, 2011 Oil.
That is what the modern Middle Eastern geopolitics have usually been about. Given the vast energy resources that form the backbone of western economies, influence and involvement in the Middle East has been of paramount importance for the former and current imperial and super powers, including France, Britain, USA and the former Soviet Union. Prior to the discovery of oil, the region had been a hotbed for religious conflict and wars over other rich resources and land. Global. SINOPEC. Energy news, comment and analysis.