The blog looks at a broad range of issues. While these issues often appear unconnected, many have a common underlying theme. And each year I highlight the most five powerful of those themes.

In 2010, the five themes include China’s ties to the Middle East, the rise of Islamic economies, the world’s changing trade routes, the Silk Road’s growing middle-class, and a rebalancing of global power.

Each theme includes a brief introduction as to why it’s important, and links to relevant blogs. But not all the blogs will fit neatly into a theme. The region is, after all, complex and changing fast.