Geopolitics: 2021

Friday, December 24, 2021

Quoted in: "Rusia debe monitorear a los talibanes en Afganistán"

"Rusia debe monitorear a los talibanes en Afganistán"

Internacional

Sputnik Mundo

23 December 2021

Originally published: https://mundo.sputniknews.com/20211223/rusia-debe-monitorear-a-los-talibanes-en-afganistan-1119685614.html

BUENOS AIRES (Sputnik) — Es conveniente que la Federación Rusa supervise a los talibanes en Afganistán, dijo a la Agencia Sputnik el analista de geopolítica y defensa Wilder Alejandro Sánchez tras los comentarios de Vladímir Putin, sobre la necesidad de que se garantice la representación de todos los grupos étnicos en la cúpula dirigente afgana.

"En términos generales, Rusia tiene buenas relaciones con los países de Asia Central. Por ende, es necesario que Moscú monitoree la situación en Afganistán, no solo para su seguridad doméstica, sino también para la defensa de sus aliados", comentó el presidente de la consultora Second Floor Strategies de Washington.

E-IR: Mustafa Shokay and the Soviet Propaganda Machine

"Mustafa Shokay and the Soviet Propaganda Machine"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Articles

E-International Relations

24 December, 2021

Originally published: https://www.e-ir.info/2021/12/24/mustafa-shokay-and-the-soviet-propaganda-machine/

The Soviet propaganda machine created heroes and monsters via exaggerations and, often, lies. Books like The Soviet Propaganda Machine and The Birth of the Propaganda State have researched this topic. However – with notable exceptions – not much has been written in English about the inhabitants of Central Asia who became victims of the propaganda machine. The Kazakhstani scholar and activist Mustafa Shokay (also spelled Çokay or Chokay) is a prime example of the machine at work. His name and legacy have only now begun to be revisited as Kazakhstan has been an independent nation for three decades and a new generation of Central Asian scholars are able to carry out their own historical research.

Tuesday, December 14, 2021

The Diplomat: The AIFC’s Role in Kazakhstan’s Green Transition

"The AIFC’s Role in Kazakhstan’s Green Transition"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Central Asia

The Diplomat

14 December, 2021

Originally published: https://thediplomat.com/2021/12/the-aifcs-role-in-kazakhstans-green-transition/

As Kazakhstan aims to become carbon-neutral by 2060, Nur-Sultan hopes that new institutions and policies will facilitate the country’s green energy transition away from hydrocarbons toward renewable energy sources. One key player in the coming years will be the Green Finance Center (GFC), an agency within the Astana International Financial Center (AIFC).

Monday, December 13, 2021

Shephard Media: Colombia set to receive two more Coelums

"Colombia set to receive two more Coelums"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

13 December, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/uv-online/colombia-set-to-receive-two-more-coelums/

Domestic UAV production for the Colombian Air Force is firmly on the agenda.

Two more Coelum UAVs manufactured by the Colombian Aeronautical Industry Corporation (CIAC) will be transferred to the Colombian Air Force (FAC) on 15 December, following the handover of the first such aircraft during the 2021 Expodefensa defence exhibition in Bogota on 29 November to 1 December.

Monday, December 6, 2021

Geopolitical Monitor: Summit for Democracy Marks Progress in Moldova Reforms

"Summit for Democracy Marks Progress in Moldova Reforms"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

6 December, 2021

Geopolitical Monitor

Originally published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/summit-of-democracy-marks-progress-in-moldova-reforms/

US President Joe Biden has invited the leaders of 110 countries across the globe to participate in the two-day Summit for Democracy. Much has been written about the governments that were not invited to this virtual summit, which will take place from 9-10 December, such as the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, and the Republic of Turkey, however there are also several participants worth noting.

For example, regarding the nations that constitute the former Soviet Union: Armenia, the three Baltic nations, Georgia, Moldova, and Ukraine have been invited. In this brief commentary, we will briefly analyze Chisinau-Washington relations and why this invitation is an important sign of confidence from the White House to the European country’s President Maia Sandu.

Monday, November 22, 2021

Geopolitical Monitor: Kazakhstan Turns to Foreign Investment for Post-COVID Growth

"Kazakhstan Turns to Foreign Investment for Post-COVID Growth"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

Geopolitical Monitor

November 22, 2021

Originally published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/kazakhstan-turns-to-foreign-investment-for-post-covid-growth/

Since achieving independence from the Soviet Union three decades ago, the Republic of Kazakhstan has understood the importance of procuring a constant flow of foreign direct investments to promote development and economic growth. The government’s priorities regarding where should investment go have changed over the years, as the current goal is to promote economic diversification, moving away from industries like energy and mining, to sectors like manufacturing, agriculture, tourism and green technology.

Wednesday, November 17, 2021

E-IR "The Lasting Repercussions of Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Disarmament"

"The Lasting Repercussions of Kazakhstan’s Nuclear Disarmament"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

E-International Relations

17 November, 2021

Originally published: https://www.e-ir.info/2021/11/17/the-lasting-repercussions-of-kazakhstans-nuclear-disarmament/

As 2021 draws to a close, the Central Asian states are celebrating three decades of independence from the former Soviet Union. One additional cause worth celebrating is that Central Asia is a nuclear weapons-free region.

Thursday, October 28, 2021

The National Interest: Russia-Central Asia Relations Will Be Forged by How the Past Is Remembered

"Russia-Central Asia Relations Will Be Forged by How the Past Is Remembered"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

The National Interest

28 October, 2021

Originally published: https://nationalinterest.org/blog/buzz/russia-central-asia-relations-will-be-forged-how-past-remembered-195626

While Central Asian states generally cooperate with Russia in areas such as defense, trade, and other common foreign policy interests, the legacy of Soviet propaganda has left deep scars, which bleed into everyday life today.

As the nations of Central Asia celebrate three decades of independence from the now defunct-Soviet Union, the region’s relations with the Russian Federation are generally cordial, though not without occasional tensions. While Central Asian states generally cooperate with Russia in areas such as defense, trade, and other common foreign policy interests, the legacy of Soviet propaganda has left deep scars, which bleed into everyday life today.

Sunday, October 24, 2021

Quoted: ¿Los países de América Latina y el Caribe desean un mundo multipolar?

"¿Los países de América Latina y el Caribe desean un mundo multipolar?"

Sputnik Mundo

22 Octubre, 2021

Originally published: https://mundo.sputniknews.com/amp/20211022/los-paises-de-america-latina-y-el-caribe-desean-un-mundo-multipolar-1117419636.html

BUENOS AIRES (Sputnik) — Los países de América Latina y el Caribe ambicionan un mundo multipolar, afirmó en declaraciones a Sputnik el analista de defensa y geopolítica en Washington Wilder Alejandro Sánchez en relación a las afirmaciones del presidente de Rusia, Vladímir Putin, sobre la dominación de Occidente en los asuntos mundiales.

Friday, October 22, 2021

Shephard Media: Argentina acquires transport trucks

"Argentina acquires transport trucks"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

21 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/argentina-acquires-transport-trucks/

Argentinian Army augments its logistics vehicle fleet.

The Argentinian MoD announced last month that 54 Mercedes-Benz Atego 4x4 1726 trucks have been acquired for the army.

The price tag for the vehicles, capable of transporting up to 15t of cargo or 17 troops, is around $10 million from the FONDEF national defence fund, according to the MoD.

Tuesday, October 19, 2021

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Ultra presents new RAIN information system

"AUSA 2021: Ultra presents new RAIN information system"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

19 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/digital-battlespace/ausa-2021-ultra-presents-new-rain-information-syst/

RAIN delivers faster information flow to troops and a beta version is set for release, says Ultra.

The new Rapid Application of Information (RAIN) system from Ultra Electronics will provide users with ‘increased knowledge of specific threats and targets, speeding time to information for the warfighter’, developer Ultra Electronics announced during AUSA 2021 in Washington DC on 11-13 October.

Friday, October 15, 2021

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Aeronautics develops VTOL Orbiter variant

"AUSA 2021: Aeronautics develops VTOL Orbiter variant"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

15 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/ausa-2021-aeronautics-develops-vtol-orbiter-varian/

Aeronautics is working on a new VTOL member of its Orbiter family called Pegasus.

Israel-based Aeronautics Group is developing a VTOL system for its family of Orbiter UASs, company representatives explained to Shephard during the AUSA exhibition in Washington DC.

Wednesday, October 13, 2021

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Interest grows in sense-through-wall radar

"AUSA 2021: Interest grows in sense-through-wall radar"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

13 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ausa-2021-interest-grows-in-sense-through-wall-rad/

Radar technology has the capability to sense the presence of stationary or mobile adversaries concealed behind walls or other non-metallic structures.

The US subsidiary of the Czechoslovak Group (CSG) presented its Presence of Life Radar v.1 (POLR-1) system at the AUSA defence exhibition in Washington DC on 11-13 October.

A company representative from CSG USA explained to Shephard that there is growing interest from various defence and law enforcement agencies in systems to detect stationary or mobile targets behind walls or non-metallic barriers.

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: USAF receives portable explosives detection systems

"AUSA 2021: USAF receives portable explosives detection systems"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

13 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ausa-2021-usaf-receives-portable-explosives-detect/

Portable X-ray explosives detector for USAF uses radio frequencies rather than Wi-Fi to transmit data.

The US branch of the Israeli company Vidisco showcased the Guardian 17 military-grade portable digital radiography inspection system at the AUSA exhibition in Washington DC on 11-13 October.

A spokesperson explained to Shephard that Vidisco USA is looking for new US-based and international clients for the Guardian family of portable inspection systems. Specifically, the Shield compact EOD detection system is being marketed to US law enforcement agencies and Latin American clients.

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Mobile concealment technology makes strides

"AUSA 2021: Mobile concealment technology makes strides"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

13 October, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ausa-2021-mobile-concealment-technology-makes-stri/

The next generation of concealment technology for military users includes mobile solutions to conceal heat signatures while moving.

Industry in the US is looking into the problem of how to mask the heat signature of soldiers and equipment on the move.

Tuesday, October 12, 2021

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: UVision and Rheinmetall sign loitering munitions partnership

"AUSA 2021: UVision and Rheinmetall sign loitering munitions partnership"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

October 12, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/defence-notes/ausa-2021-uvision-and-rheinmetall-sign-loitering-m/

Pact could see Hero loitering munitions integrated with the Lynx IFV.

Israel-based UVision and German conglomerate Rheinmetall signed a strategic partnership for loitering munitions on 11 October during the AUSA exhibition in Washington DC.

The two companies stated in a joint press release that they will ‘offer end-to-end solutions for loitering munitions to the armed forces of Europe’.

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Skylock offers counter-UAS solutions to US market

"AUSA 2021: Skylock offers counter-UAS solutions to US market"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

October 12, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ausa-2021-skylock-offers-counter-uas-solutions-to/

A multi-layer counter-UAS system called 'The Robot' uses a combination of radar, RF detection, EO/IR and jamming for protection of bases and vessels.

Israel-based company Skylock, part of the AVNON group, displayed its counter-UAS short-range solution, known as 'The Robot', at the AUSA event in Washington DC on 11-13 October.

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Customisable power management aids EOD

"AUSA 2021: Customisable power management aids EOD"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

October 11, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/ausa-2021-customisable-power-management-aids-eod/

Galvion is providing a solution to recharge batteries of EOD equipment for the US Army — and other potential applications for the Squad Power Manager include powering radios in Colombian helicopters.

Military power and data management solutions provider Galvion has obtained a $5.8 million contract to supply its Squad Power Manager (SPM) 622 kit to the US Army.

Shephard Media: AUSA 2021: Taekyung looks to break into the US market

"AUSA 2021: Taekyung looks to break into the US market"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

October 11, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/ausa-2021-taekyung-looks-to-break-into-the-us-mark/

South Korean-made Searchlight Drone platform can be used for EO/IR reconnaissance, logistics operations, surveillance patrol, object tracking and warfighting experiments.

Taekyung Electronics presented its LED Searchlight Drone UAV at the AUSA 2021 exhibition in Washington DC, as the South Korean company hopes to break into the US market.

IPD: Assessing the Complicated Legacy of Mustafa Shokay

"Assessing the Complicated Legacy of Mustafa Shokay"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

International Policy Digest

October 11, 2021

Originally published: https://intpolicydigest.org/assessing-the-complicated-legacy-of-mustafa-shokay/

It is impossible to overstate the power of propaganda throughout the Second World War and the Cold War. Along with creating national narratives and heroes, propaganda machines churned out demons by the thousands. One such individual whose legacy has been tarnished is Kazakhstani activist and scholar Mustafa Shokay.

Captured by the Germans when they entered France, Shokay’s time in Nazi captivity has been a subject of both fact-based speculation and wild conspiracy theories. During the Soviet era, he was branded an accomplice of Nazi Germany; however, the dissolution of the Soviet Union allowed new studies of his life, showing a complex and multifaceted individual devoted to an independent homeland for his fellow Turkic people.

Monday, September 20, 2021

CIMSEC: U.S. Southern Command Needs a Permanently-Assigned Hospital Ship

"U.S. Southern Command Needs a Permanently-Assigned Hospital Ship"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

The Southern Tide

Center for International Maritime Security

09 September 2021

Originally published: https://cimsec.org/u-s-southern-command-needs-a-permanently-assigned-hospital-ship/

Written by Wilder Alejandro Sanchez, The Southern Tide addresses maritime security issues throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. It discusses the challenges regional navies face including limited defense budgets, inter-state tensions, and transnational crimes. It also examines how these challenges influence current and future defense strategies, platform acquisitions, and relations with global powers.

“We focus on partnerships…Our partners want to work with us. They want the advantage of the United States education, training, exercises and military equipment. It’s the best in the world. And so it’s up to us to deliver that in a way that’s relevant and also provides a return on investment for American taxpayer. So that is our focus.” –Navy Adm. Craig S. Faller, commander of U.S. Southern Command, before the Senate Armed Services Committee July 9, 2019.

By Wilder Alejandro Sánchez

The variety of extreme natural disasters that annually hit U.S. Southern Command’s (SOUTHCOM) area of responsibilities, exacerbated by climate change, demonstrates the Command’s need for a permanently-assigned hospital vessel. While the Command can obtain assets if needed in case of a crisis, like the current deployment of the San Antonio-class amphibious transport dock ship USS Arlington (LPD-24), among other naval units, to Haiti after the deadly earthquake on August 14, there are benefits to having a permanently-assigned hospital vessel.

Tuesday, September 14, 2021

Shephard Media: Moldovan military relies on partnerships for modernisation

"Moldovan military relies on partnerships for modernisation"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

16 September, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/defence-notes/moldovan-military-relies-partnerships-modernisatio/

With little new modern equipment on the cards, Moldova's military is being forced to reply on training and international cooperation to improve its capability.

As the Republic of Moldova celebrated its 30th independence anniversary on 27 August, the country’s armed forces that use mostly Soviet-era equipment have come to rely on four key partners for modernisation initiatives.

Regarding infrastructure upgrades, the Bulboaca National Army Training Centre has been modernised thanks to the US Global Peace Operations Initiative. Moreover, the US has contributed to the construction of an explosive ordnance disposal centre, part of the Codru Battalion. The North Carolina National Guard regularly trains with Moldovan troops under the framework of the National Guard’s State Partnership Program.

Similarly, a 7 September Moldovan MoD ...

Friday, September 10, 2021

International Policy Digest: In Pragmatic Speech, Kazakhstan’s President Highlights Challenges

"In Pragmatic Speech, Kazakhstan’s President Highlights Challenges"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

International Policy Digest

10 September, 2021

Originally published: https://intpolicydigest.org/in-pragmatic-speech-kazakhstan-s-president-highlights-challenges/

The State of the Nation speech by Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Kazakhstan’s president, stressed how 2021 is a jubilee as the country celebrates its 30th anniversary. But far from qualifying the situation in the country as ideal, Tokayev was pragmatic. “We must be ready for any challenges and threats, continuously improve and always move forward,” he noted with cautious pessimism in his first remarks as the country, and the world as a whole, continues to struggle with the pandemic, and Central Asia prepares for a Taliban-controlled Afghanistan. Additionally, two areas in which the government is particularly keen to move forward are energy, as Nur-Sultan and Washington recently signed a new agreement to help Kazakhstan develop a low carbon strategy, and the digitalization of the country to help grow the economy.

Keep Reading...

The Diplomat: UN Mission to Afghanistan Relocates to Kazakhstan

"UN Mission to Afghanistan Relocates to Kazakhstan"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

The Diplomat

10 September, 2021

Originally published: https://thediplomat.com/2021/09/un-mission-to-afghanistan-relocates-to-kazakhstan/

As the world adapts to a “new” Afghanistan, there is much work to be done to help Afghans in need. From its temporary base in Almaty, UNAMA will continue to work toward this goal.

Sunday, September 5, 2021

Geopolitical Monitor: Kazakhstan Moves to Ease Water Conflict in Central Asia

"Kazakhstan Moves to Ease Water Conflict in Central Asia"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

Geopolitical Monitor

2 September, 2021

Originally published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/kazakhstan-moves-to-ease-water-conflict-in-central-asia/

An early August meeting of Central Asian heads of state in Turkmenistan addressed issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic and regional consequences of renewed Taliban control of Afghanistan. Additionally, there was one interesting proposal that is quite relevant to the challenges that the region faces today: Kazakhstani President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev proposed the creation of a vice ministerial-level working group and a regional consortium with the goal of promoting regional cooperation to protect precious water resources.

Friday, July 23, 2021

Advisor Perspectives: Kazakhstan: A Developing Frontier Market with a Western-friendly Attitude

"Kazakhstan: A Developing Frontier Market with a Western-friendly Attitude"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Commentary

Advisor Perspectives

22 July, 2021

Originally published: https://www.advisorperspectives.com/commentaries/2021/07/22/kazakhstan-a-developing-frontier-market-with-a-western-friendly-attitude

In the COVID-19 era, investors are turning to untapped frontier markets for higher returns and new opportunities. One nation that fits this objective is the Republic of Kazakhstan in Central Asia, as Nur-Sultan similarly aims to become a hub for Western investment as part of its own plans for economic development and diversification.

Thursday, July 15, 2021

E-IR: The ICC and Non-State Actors in the Xinjiang Crisis

"The ICC and Non-State Actors in the Xinjiang Crisis"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Opinion

E-International Relations

15 July, 2021

Originally published: https://www.e-ir.info/2021/07/15/opinion-the-icc-and-non-state-actors-in-the-xinjiang-crisis/

As the humanitarian crisis continues in Xinjiang, the East Turkestan government-in-exile (ETGE) has delivered new evidence to the International Criminal Court (ICC) to demonstrate said international judicial body’s jurisdiction. Without a doubt, the international community, particularly global and regional powers, has a critical role to play in stopping the egregious human rights abuses that have occurred for several years against various ethnic groups in this region, including atrocities committed against the Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, and ethnic Kyrgyz. However, in light of the inaction by many key governments, the East Turkestan government-in-exile and activists are turning to non-state actors, like the ICC and private corporations, to pressure Beijing to end its repressive policies.

Wednesday, July 14, 2021

Perry Center /NDU: The Creation of a TIAR 21 to Combat Illegal Fishing in Latin America

"La Creación de un TIAR 21 para Combatir la Pesca Ilegal en Latinoamérica"

" The Creation of a TIAR 21 to Combat Illegal Fishing in Latin America"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Regional Insights

William J. Perry -Center for Hemispheric Defense Studies

National Defense University/ Washington DC

July 2021

Originally published: https://www.williamjperrycenter.org/content/creation-tiar-21-combat-illegal-fishing-latin-america

In Spanish

Monday, July 12, 2021

Shephard Media: Venezuela refurbishes legacy vehicles to maintain army capabilities

"Venezuela refurbishes legacy vehicles to maintain army capabilities"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Land Warfare

Shephard Media

12 July, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/venezuela-refurbishes-legacy-fleets/

Starved of funding, the Venezuelan Army is repairing and refurbishing obsolete Western-supplied vehicle fleets to maintain a meaningful capability.

The Venezuelan Army participated in high-profile parades on 24 June and 5 July to demonstrate not only the strength of the armed forces, but also their apparent ingenuity. After spending billions of dollars during the Hugo Chávez years on Russian defence technology, international sanctions and an ongoing economic crisis mean that Caracas can no longer afford state-of-the-art military equipment to sustain its armed forces. As a consequence, the army is repairing and refurbishing old vehicles and equipment, obtained in the pre-Chávez years, to expand its arsenal and maintain deterrence capabilities.

The equipment that participated in the parades included AMX-13 and ...

Monday, June 28, 2021

The Diplomat: After US Withdrawal From Afghanistan, What Role Will Kazakhstan Play?

"After US Withdrawal From Afghanistan, What Role Will Kazakhstan Play"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Crossroads Asia

The Diplomat

25 June, 2021

Originally published: https://thediplomat.com/2021/06/after-us-withdrawal-from-afghanistan-what-role-will-kazakhstan-play/

As the U.S. prepares to leave Afghanistan, is it Kazakhstan’s time to shine?

The greater Central Asia region is preparing for the departure of U.S. troops from Afghanistan by September. While Washington’s “forever war” is coming to an end, regional governments are concerned about a potential spillover of the violence that is (once again) brewing in Afghanistan. One of those nations, Kazakhstan, has several initiatives, including promoting the education of Afghan women and defense cooperation with Afghan forces, to help Afghanistan with the rough times ahead.

Friday, June 18, 2021

Shephard Media: Argentina relies on elderly M113s while it mulls wheeled APC choices

"Argentina relies on elderly M113s while it mulls wheeled APC choices"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Land Warfare

Shephard Media

18 June 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/argentina-relies-elderly-m113s-while-it-mulls-whee/

Three options remain on the table as Argentina looks to procure wheeled 6x6 armoured personnel carriers.

The Brazilian 6x6 VBTP-MR Guaraní armoured personnel carrier (APC) is being tested by the Argentinian Army, which is seeking a new capability alongside its decades-old fleet of tracked M113s.

Speaking on 4 June during a ceremony marking the arrival of new vehicles for the army, Argentinian defence minister Agustín Rossi ...

Thursday, June 17, 2021

CIMSEC: Made in Latin America: Domestically Manufactured Ecuadorian and Peruvian Ships Meet in the Pacific

"Made in Latin America: Domestically Manufactured Ecuadorian and Peruvian Ships Meet in the Pacific"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

The Southern Tide

Center for International Maritime Security

17 June 2021

Originally published: https://cimsec.org/made-in-latin-america-domestically-manufactured-ecuadorian-and-peruvian-ships-meet-in-the-pacific/

The Ecuadorian coast guard vessel Isla Santa Cruz escorted the Peruvian training vessel BAP Unión while the latter sailed through Ecuadorian waters as part of a training mission in mid-May. While cordial encounters at sea between ships belonging to friendly navies are quite common, a curious fact about this meeting is that both vessels were manufactured domestically by local state-run shipyards.

Wednesday, June 16, 2021

Shephard Media: Target acquisition systems show room for improvement

"Target acquisition systems show room for improvement"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Land Warfare

Shephard Media

15 June, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/landwarfareintl/target-acquisition-systems-show-room-improvement/

User feedback and technological advances have enabled enhancements to target acquisition technology but there is the potential for even more to be done.

User feedback and technological advances have already prompted one manufacturer to improve its target acquisition system. But according to some military personnel, combining target acquisition with infantry unit-operated small UAS (sUAS) would make them more helpful to frontline troops in combat operations.

David Harel, CEO of Israeli manufacturer Asio Technologies ...

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Shephard Media: Colombia freezes Kfir replacement programme

"Colombia freezes Kfir replacement programme"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Air Warfare

Shephard Media

25 May, 2021

Originally published:https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/air-warfare/colombia-freezes-kfir-replacement-programme/

Colombia may be left without a viable fighter fleet from 2023.

Budget constraints have prompted new Colombian finance minister José Manuel Restrepo (in post since 3 May) to place on indefinite hold the long-awaited acquisition of new multirole fighters to replace the air force’s fleet of 23 ageing Kfir aircraft.

'What is a priority and what is not?… I ...

Central Asia Program: The United States, Kazakhstan, and Environmental Cooperation

"The United States, Kazakhstan, and Environmental Cooperation"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Central Asia Program / George Washington University

25 May, 2021

Originally published: https://www.centralasiaprogram.org/the-united-states-kazakhstan-and-environmental-cooperation

The Republic of Kazakhstan is facing two major water-related environmental challenges: salvaging what is left of the Aral Sea, which the country shares with Uzbekistan, and protecting Lake Balkhash, where Kazakhstan, as a downstream nation, has been affected by the water policies of its neighbor, the People’s Republic of China. The country also intents to capitalizing on its vast natural diversity to promote its eco-tourism industry as part of a wider economic diversification strategy to become one of the 30 most developed nations by 2050.

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Shephard Media: Chilean Navy chief targets 2030 for indigenous frigates

"Chilean Navy chief targets 2030 for indigenous frigates"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Naval Warfare

Shephard Media

24 May, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/naval-warfare/chilean-navy-chief-targets-2030-indigenous-frigate/

The Chilean Navy wants domestic industry to be capable of building frigates by 2030 but it is pushing against practical and political obstacles.

Chilean naval planners and government policy-makers recently reiterated calls to build up a domestic shipbuilding capability, although the South American country still lacks the industrial depth to undertake major programmes independently.

Adm Julio Leiva Molina, Commander-in-Chief of the Chilean Navy, stated the case in a recent webinar called ‘Construcción Naval ...

Tuesday, May 18, 2021

The Diplomat: "EU-Kazakhstan Aim to Cooperate on Green Project"

"EU-Kazakhstan Aim to Cooperate on Green Project"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Crossroads Asia

The Diplomat

18 May, 2021

Originally published: https://thediplomat.com/2021/05/eu-kazakhstan-aim-to-cooperate-on-green-projects/

The Kazakh government is looking to diversify its economy and develop new industries while also promoting environmental protection.

The European Union praised Kazakhstan’s green agenda during a May 10 high-level meeting in Brussels, opening up possibilities for new cooperation opportunities in the near future in areas like environmental protection, achieving carbon neutrality, and combating climate change.

Sunday, May 16, 2021

Shephard Media: Latin American air forces turn to indigenous UAVs

"Latin American air forces turn to indigenous UAVs"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Unmanned Vehicles

Shephard Media News

14 May, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/uv-online/latin-american-air-forces-turn-indigenous-uavs/

Recent developments in Brazil and Colombia reflect a trend towards domestic UAV manufacturing.

While Latin American militaries will continue to rely on imported UAVs for ISR operations in the foreseeable future, countries with robust domestic defence industries are also developing them locally.

Operating domestically manufactured UAVs has become an objective for the Brazilian and Colombian air forces, for example.

On 23 April, the ...

Monday, May 10, 2021

Strife: The Venezuelan Navy: The Kraken of the Caribbean?

"The Venezuelan Navy: The Kraken of the Caribbean?"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Strife

10 May, 2021

Originally published: https://www.strifeblog.org/2021/05/10/the-venezuelan-navy-the-kraken-of-the-caribbean/

While much of what is written about the strength of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela’s military is true, its capabilities should not be exaggerated. One illustrative example is the Bolivarian navy of Venezuela (Armada Bolivariana de Venezuela), which operates a particularly old fleet of ships and submarines.

During the lengthy presidency of the late Hugo Chavez (1999-2013), the Venezuelan government spent billions of dollars to acquire state-of-the–art military equipment, particularly from the Russian Federation, to strengthen the Venezuelan armed forces and protect the country from aggression it believed might come from either the United States or Colombia. The Venezuelan army, air force, national guard and paramilitary units received copious amounts of new equipment, such as the S-300 surface-to-missile system, Mil helicopters, Sukhoi Su-30 warplanes and small weapons, but the navy did not.

Tuesday, April 27, 2021

Cannabis Culture: Brazilian Health Agency Certifies First Cannabis Pharmaceutical Company

"Brazilian Health Agency Certifies First Cannabis Pharmaceutical Compan"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Cannabis Culture

27 April, 2021

Originally published: https://www.cannabisculture.com/content/2021/04/27/brazilian-health-agency-certifies-first-cannabis-pharmaceutical-company/

CANNABIS CULTURE – The cannabis industry in Brazil took a giant leap forward on April 7th when the country’s health regulatory agency (Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária: ANVISA) gave a Good Manufacturing Practices – Pharma Grade (GMP) to the Brazilian branch of the multinational Ease Labs pharmaceutical group.

Ease Labs becomes the first cannabis company allowed to locally produce CBD products in the major South American market, as the certificate allows Ease Labs to develop, manufacture, store, import and export cannabis-based products in Brazil, making it a pioneer in this sector.

Monday, April 26, 2021

Shephard Media: Argentina seeks helicopters and receives new OPV with Antarctic ops in mind

"Argentina seeks helicopters and receives new OPV with Antarctic ops in mind"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Defence Notes

Shephard Media

23 April, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/defence-notes/premium-argentina-seeks-helicopters-and-receives-n/

A tender will open next month as the Argentine Navy seeks to buy two second-hand helicopters to enhance its Antarctic capabilities — but financial constraints remain.

The Argentine Navy is taking steps to enhance its capabilities to operate in Antarctica by procuring two second-hand Sea King helicopters. It also recently received a new offshore patrol vessel (OPV) built by French shipyard Naval Group.

The two Sikorsky Sea King SH-3 helicopters will be delivered to the ...

Thursday, April 15, 2021

Shephard Media: PREMIUM: COVID-19 relief efforts motivate vehicle procurement in South America

"COVID-19 relief efforts motivate vehicle procurement in South America"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Shephard Media

Military Logistics

14 April, 2021

Originally published: https://www.shephardmedia.com/news/mil-log/premium-covid-19-relief-efforts-motivate-vehicle-p/

Ecuador and Argentina have bought or will acquire new military transport vehicles, driven by the need to provide humanitarian assistance amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the role of South American militaries in humanitarian assistance has expanded to the point that the Argentine Army has created a new transport battalion.

In this context, the Ecuadorian Naval Infantry Corps and Argentine Army are each expanding their transport vehicle fleets. Apart from security ...

Friday, April 9, 2021

World Politics Review: No U.S. President Has Ever Visited Central Asia. Biden Can Change That

"No U.S. President Has Ever Visited Central Asia. Biden Can Change That"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

9 April, 2021

World Politics Review

Originally published: https://www.worldpoliticsreview.com/articles/29559/no-u-s-president-has-ever-visited-central-asia-biden-can-change-that

As President Joe Biden’s foreign policy takes shape, one issue that still needs clarification is the role of Central Asia. Discussions in Washington about the region usually occur not on its own terms, but in the context of broader issues about Russian and Chinese influence, or security concerns around terrorism and the war in Afghanistan. However, Central Asia is important to the U.S. in its own right. For one thing, it is composed of frontier markets that can be attractive to U.S. companies, apart from the energy firms that already operate there. And some governments share the Biden administration’s interest in environmental protection. Moreover, some Central Asian countries, like Kazakhstan, have a strong interest in taking bilateral ties with the United States to a new level. The Biden administration should capitalize on this with a high-level trip to a region that has never been visited by a sitting American president.

Geopolitical Monitor: TIAR 2.0: Breathing New Life into a Cold War-era inter-American Defense Treaty

"TIAR 2.0: Breathing New Life into a Cold War-era inter-American Defense Treaty"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Situation Reports

Geopolitical Monitor

9 April, 2021

Originally published: https://www.geopoliticalmonitor.com/tiar-2-0-breathing-new-life-into-a-cold-war-era-inter-american-defense-treaty/

International diplomacy is composed of an endless list of treaties, agreements, memoranda of understanding, among other types of documents between states. As events unfold and national interests and objectives shift, many of these treaties become obsolete, forgotten or replaced by new treaties. One document that is in the edge of becoming obsolete is the Inter-American Reciprocal Assistance Treaty (Tratado Inter-Americano de Asistencia Recíproca: TIAR), commonly known as the Rio Treaty.

Tuesday, March 23, 2021

The Diplomat: What’s in Kazakhstan’s 2025 Development Plan?

"What’s in Kazakhstan’s 2025 Development Plan"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Crossroads Asia

The Diplomat

23 March, 2021

Originally published: https://thediplomat.com/2021/03/whats-in-kazakhstans-2025-development-plan/

On the road to 2050, Nur-Sultan aims to diversify its economy and develop new industries.

The government of Kazakhstan recently released its National Development Plan Through 2025, which complements the government’s primary objective of becoming one of the world’s 30 most developed nations by 2050.

Monday, March 15, 2021

Journal: Brazil’s foreign policy and the eternal quest for Latin American integration

"Brazil’s foreign policy and the eternal quest for Latin American integration"

Wilder Alejandro Sanchez

Cuadernos Iberoamericanos

Vol. 8, No. 3, 2020

Originally published: https://doi.org/10.46272/2409-3416-2020-8-3-10-23

Abstract

Brazil has historically been regarded as the natural leader of Latin America, given its level of development, the size of its economy, its military might and its ambitious foreign policy. This image was cemented during the presidencies of Lula da Silva and Dilma Rousseff, who supported Latin American integration (particularly via the creation of such blocs as UNASUR and CELAC) and diminishing Washington’s historical influence in the Western Hemisphere. However, the situation has dramatically changed with the rise to power of President Jair Bolsonaro, a staunch supporter of the US in general (and President Donald Trump in particular), which has affected Brazil’s role in the region. Based upon the analysis of specific domestic and foreign policy components, the author draws conclusions on how Brazil’s prospects as a participant (or even the key motivator) in the transformation processes in the region have changed. Brazil is no longer perceived as the axis of attempts at regional integration, but rather “just another separate state” taking care of its own interests. Brazil’s economic crisis and Bolsonaro’s strategy (or the lack thereof) regarding the COVID-19 pandemic have negatively affected Brazil’s image even further. Then again, as this analysis seeks to demonstrate, Latin America has a mixed record when it comes to integration attempts, as regional governments are zealous guardians of national sovereignty. Hence, while there have been some successful regional thrivings towards promoting cooperation, the rise of some supranationalist organization similar to the European Union – is a dream. This is not necessarily a bad thing, as Latin American (and Caribbean) blocs do not need supranationalism to be effective, but it shows the limits of regional integration initiatives.

Keywords

Brazil, Latin America, Caribbean, South-South cooperation, geopolitics, supranationalism, integration

For citation:

Sánchez W.A. Brazil’s foreign policy and the eternal quest for Latin American integration. Cuadernos Iberoamericanos. 2020;8(3):10-23. (In Russ.) https://doi.org/10.46272/2409-3416-2020-8-3-10-23