[GSlob]

Within historically short time (40-50yrs, probably earlier given most recent oil prices) Middle East oil will be depleted to the point where there will be no alternative to coal/oil conversion. At that time ME will lose all geostrategical importance.
Given the traditions and mores of native ME populations, what sane person would even dream of gainfully incorporating them into some united system like world government?
The Russian aim in ME are of economical (they are oil exporters) and geostrategic nature. Both can be only short- to middle term.

[jb6]

Welcoming GIJoel's latest incarnation back? :0)