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Politics : Foreign Affairs Discussion Group -- Ignore unavailable to you. Want to Upgrade?

To: BigBull who wrote (947)	9/23/2001 3:20:28 AM
From: tekboy	Read Replies (1) \| Respond to of 281500

Is Caspian energy important? yes. Do a lot of people care about it, particularly companies and countries that might profit from its exploration, transport, and sale? yes. Is there any strong clear simple policy issue here that has any realistic bearing on how we deal with the Taliban and bin Laden? not really. End of the day, this crisis and its consequences will probably have more impact on Caspian energy policy than vice versa. As I said, for a good survey of the state of play in this area, see here: foreignaffairs.org tb@bwtfdik.com

To: BigBull who wrote (947)	9/23/2001 11:18:05 AM
From: Hawkmoon	Read Replies (3) \| Respond to of 281500

Bigbull.. yes.. the caspian oil, and other reserves that are locked up in the various 'kistans of the former soviet union, is the real issue here. Bringing a different source of oil to rival and compete against that of the unreliable Persian Gulf states. (along with the tremendous wealth that would result to these poverty stricken regions) And that's why US oil companies were willing to deal with the Taleban.. They were simply the "only game in town" who could provide the political cover to accomplish this pipeline through the region. And it's interesting that you bring up this alliance with Russia, especially with the rumours floating around about Moscow seeking inclusion into NATO.. (who woulda thunk it, eh??) Kinda brings to mind this little bit of "take it for what it's worth" trivia I remember reading as a kid, written by one Michel D'Nostradame: Century 2, Number 89. "One day the two great masters will be friends, Their great power will be seen increased: The new land will be at its high peak, To the bloody one the number recounted" Now... before all the "illuminati" out here start haranguing me, know that I just thought it rather amusing that this quatrain, normally associated with a US-Russian alliance, might actually come to pass. It's enough to make one wonder about the power of prophecy... LOL!! Hawkmoon