11th Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate Opens, Examining Global Instability, Shifting Power Dynamics

The 11th annual Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate (ADSD), organized by the Emirates Policy Center (EPC), kicked off on Monday in Abu Dhabi.

The two-day event, titled "The Illusion of Stability: A World in Flux," focuses on changing global strategic trends, highlighting major shifts in world security, new alliances, increased militarization and the changing roles of powerful countries.

With a special focus on ongoing instability in the Middle East, the conference began with a panel focusing on the UAE's plans for sustainability, economic growth, technological progress, and innovation.

Anwar Gargash, Diplomatic Adviser to the UAE president, stressed the importance of including humanitarian values in strategic decisions. He said that protecting people's lives and dignity, especially those most vulnerable, should be a priority in political choices.

Gargash also discussed the severe humanitarian crises in Gaza, Lebanon, and Sudan, reaffirming the UAE's commitment to providing aid and promoting peace and stability in these areas.

"At a critical juncture for the Middle East, there is an urgent need for compassion, dialogue, and collaborative action," Gargash said, WAM reported. "The UAE calls for cooperation to foster a more stable future and warns against further polarisation and conflict."

Ebtesam Al-Ketbi, President of the Emirates Policy Center, highlighted that the 11th Abu Dhabi Strategic Debate is happening during major global and regional changes, including Donald Trump's U.S. presidential election victory and shifting American foreign policy in a time of intense global competition.

She said that the forum's first day covered key geopolitical topics such as the rivalry among world powers, the influence of major players in Asia, and the rise of "middle powers" in the region, along with the ongoing Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Al-Ketbi added that the forum also explores critical issues like transport routes and logistics, which are becoming more important due to international competition for rare minerals. Other discussions focus on Red Sea maritime security and the challenges posed by Houthi threats to navigation.

The president of the Emirates Policy Center also pointed out that the forum is discussing how the conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon affect regional stability, as well as the future of the Palestinian state.

She concluded by mentioning that the forum brings together a distinguished group of speakers and experts from across the globe, including participants from the Arab world, Asia, Europe, and Africa.