Sabena Siddiqui is a foreign affairs journalist, lawyer and geopolitical analyst specialising in modern China, the Belt and Road Initiative, Middle East and South Asia.
Analysis: China's footprint on Afghanistan's politics, foreign policy, and economy is gradually deepening as it increases its engagement with the Taliban.
Analysis: With souring relations between the Taliban and Pakistan, and a surge in militant attacks, Islamabad is planning to expel more than 1.5 million undocumented Afghan refugees. But it could have serious implications for regional security.
In-depth: Iran has sought a pragmatic relationship with the Taliban, but concerns over Afghan refugees and a dispute over access to water resources have led to escalating tensions.
Analysis: Joining the BRICS alliance would cement Algeria's relations with China and Russia and open up alternative financial and foreign investment opportunities.
Analysis: Pakistan is the latest country to import discounted Russian oil while at the same time trying to balance its ties with Ukraine and Western allies.
Analysis: For Riyadh, taking steps to join the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is about demonstrating that it is an independent geopolitical player and has alternative options to the United States.
Analysis: Saudi financial assistance has been slower than usual due to a changing political and economic climate, but strategic relations between both countries remain deeply entrenched.
