Orient Weekly Watch: CSIORS Edition - Friday, December 8th, 2023

Africanews.com: China Participates in the Launch of Egypt's MISRAT-2 Satellite

Egypt's Space Agency CEO, Sherif Sedky, praised China's collaboration in space technologies after the launch of Egypt's MISRAT-2 satellite. The satellite, launched from northwest China, enhances capabilities in monitoring urban development, water levels, and agriculture. Sedky emphasized the high resolution, benefiting not only Egypt but offering valuable insights for other African nations. The knowledge transfer from China is expected to contribute significantly to the continent's space capabilities.

Aljazeera.com: Putin's Uncommon Visit to the Middle East for Meetings with UAE and Saudi Leaders

Russian President Vladimir Putin embarked on a rare one-day tour to the Middle East, visiting the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Greeted with honors in Abu Dhabi, Putin discussed bilateral relations with UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, emphasizing cooperation in energy and advanced technologies. In Riyadh, he met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud, addressing oil cooperation and geopolitical matters.

Aljazeera.com: Greece and Turkey Seek to Reset Relations Following Years of Hostility

Turkish President Erdogan's visit to Athens aims to reset relations with Greece, focusing on positive agreements and avoiding contentious issues. The "positive agenda" includes agreements on infrastructure, student exchanges, energy, tourism, and small businesses. Talks over the past three months indicate mutual political will, with potential military agreements on confidence-building measures. Erdogan emphasizes trust-building and increased cooperation, while addressing past disagreements. The visit seeks to improve strained relations since Erdogan's 2017 visit.