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Aug 19, 2006 12:39

An excellent series of five feature articles from Der Spiegel: http://service.spiegel.de/cache/international/spiegel/0,1518,429968,00.html (links to the next one at the bottom of each page)

It discusses the global politics of oil and energy -- very comprehensive, and a few unusual but interesing parts (eg, the future scenario towards the end.. quite frightening!)

"Even in states as small as Equatorial Guinea, two powerful opponents are mustering each other suspiciously, doing everything they can to score political points and ensure that their businesses continue to prosper: the US, a current superpower, and the prospective superpower China. India, the other great player, is seldom far behind in this chess match. India has impressive high-tech success to show and it is on its way to leadership in at least one respect: By 2035, there will be more Indians than Chinese; and taken together, the populations of the two countries will be almost four times as high as that of Europe."

"Now Beijing is betting on giant hydroelectric power plants to help meet its energy needs. It is investing in alternative energy sources and will soon play a leading role in this area, along with Germany. In addition, China is building nuclear plants so quickly that by 2050 it will probably be the world leader when it comes to nuclear energy, too. Yet despite these developments, Beijing's leadership sees no other option but to go on an aggressive worldwide shopping spree for energy. "

"Beijing is now trying to hit the Americans where it hurts -- mainly in the US's trade with the White House's traditional allies. China has signed long-term contracts on the shipment of natural gas and iron ore with Canberra and has surpassed the US to become Australia's second-largest export market. Asia's expansionist enthusiasts have bought themselves into energy projects in Canada as well, spending billions."
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