Kazakhstan
Turkey has closed its ports to Iranian oil: reports
If the move is confirmed it would fly in the face of aggressive rhetoric from Ankara in which it has said the US cannot deny it the right to import energy shipments from its neighbour.
Kazakhstan’s banking sector under pressure, bracing for more M&A or defaults
Fears of a fresh banking crisis are mounting in Kazakhstan thanks to a backdrop of rising political risk in the lead-up to snap presidential elections in June and debt. More mergers and liquidations are in store.
Arming and rearming: Military spending grows across CEE and SEE in 2018
Russia’s expenditure falls for a second year, even though Moscow fears are driving defence outlays elsewhere. Turkey committed a league-topping 24% more while Iran spent 9.5% less on its armed forces as US tightened economic noose.
COLCHIS: Media Sustainability in Eurasia: What does the Data Say?
Southeast Europe enjoys a largely free and vibrant press, but an index developed by consultant Keshif shows that the press is coming under pressure and diversity and quality are slipping.
Kazakh ruling party and Nazarbayev back Tokayev as election candidate
Ballot box victory for interim president a foregone conclusion as authoritarian Kazakhstan has no real opposition parties.