Европа и Ближний Восток: адаптация к новым геополитическим реалиям

Актуальные проблемы Европы. 2026. № 1. С. 207–233.

Baklanov A.

The article analyses the current stage of development in relations between the European Union and the countries of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. These relations have a long and complex history, and today are undergoing further transformation and adaptation to the realities of the emerging multipolar world order. The article seeks to identify the key trends arising in connection with the restructuring of both the global system of international relations and the regional configuration of contacts between the MENA countries and Europe as a whole, as well as with individual European powers. The author points out that Europe and the MENA region differ not only in cultural, religious and economic terms. Europe is far more integrated and often seeks to act as a single entity on the international stage. In contrast, in the MENA countries, true region-wide institutions have never been formed. Regional organizations – such as the Arab League, the Gulf Cooperation Council, the Arab Maghreb Union, etc., which include some MENA countries, – demonstrate very modest results in terms of integration. Intra-regional trade among neighboring countries remains relatively low, and attempts to to formulate certain principles reflecting the common political interests of Arab countries have so far failed to produce tangible results. The author concludes that in the near future, MENA countries will take various measures to strengthen their economic and financial sovereignty. However, they are not yet ready to defend their interests on the European direction in a tough competitive struggle and therefore, in international issues, they will strive to develop compromise solutions and maneuver between «centers of power».

Keywords: Израиль, Турция, Палестина, Ближний Восток и Северная Африка, Европейский союз