Experts on geopolitical scenarios of the Middle East discussed the evolving landscapes in the region, especially in the aftermath of the visit of US president Donald Trump at the ongoing Qatar economic Forum (QEF) 2025.

“It is a new Arab world. It is different, but there is much more in common among Arabs than there are differences. Therefore, I want to see more success,” said Nabil Fahmy, Egypt's former foreign minister and ambassador to the US, and chairman, Lynx Business Advisors while highlighting the rapidly changing scenario in the region.

US Army retired General David H Petraeus, chairman, Global Institute & KKR Middle East and partner, KKR, noted that during the visit of President Trump in addition to aviation and military business deals, there was a focus on technology.

“It is not the traditional fossil fuels only or petrochemicals or the rest of that was part of the technology discussions. There is a huge economy that is developing out here in the states that are promoting innovation, data centres, AI, and all that goes along with that in a very significant way. The ability to sell the most advanced chips here is one that is also very important,” he explained.

The experts also delved on the current situations in Syria, Palestine, Ukraine, Iran and other political developments that are taking place in different parts of the region and beyond.

As for the current situation in Syria, Petraeus said: “And let's give the new leader every opportunity. So the US lifts the sanctions. Other countries out here have been providing financial assistance, dealing with some of their debts, etc. I think that is a very significant development in the region.”

Fahmy noted that what is happening in Syria is the beginning of the story and not the end of it. He explained: “Syria, for the first time, came to the Arab summit and attended a summit with President Trump. At the same time, they were asked to do a number of things, but the incentive was put up front.”

He continued that while the US has lifted the sanctions, countries in the region have offered to provide assistance to Syria . “That being said, all of those who met the Syrians, be them the Arabs or the Americans, though I am speaking more on the Arab side, want a better Syria. They don't want an extremist Syria. They don't want, frankly, a revisionist Syria either. So the incentive's out there, but there has to be something to be delivered in response by the Syrians. It has to be for all the Syrians.” he added.

The panellists also discussed Palestine and Ukraine and highlighted the major issues facing this region as well as Europe. The discussion was moderated by John Micklethwait, editor-in-chief, Bloomberg.