Regional Cooperation Research Articles

An In-Depth Economic Analysis of Xiangjiang River Water Pollution Control: Introducing New Variables

This study provides a significant economic analysis of pollution control methodologies applied to the Xiangjiang River, advancing the understanding of how economic development and environmental preservation intersect. By integrating previously overlooked variables, the research offers a nuanced perspective on the costs and benefits of safeguarding the river's economic and ecological roles. The hypothesis posits that including additional factors—such as cross-regional economic collaboration and long-term ecological resilience—can reshape traditional cost-benefit analyses of pollution control. Findings suggest that these factors substantially transform the landscape of pollution control, highlighting the need for a broader evaluative framework that encompasses economic, ecological, and social dimensions. The research underscores the importance of regional cooperation and ecological sustainability, offering insights with implications not only for the Xiangjiang River but for other similarly impacted water bodies. This study encourages policymakers and researchers to adopt a more comprehensive approach to pollution control, paving the way for future research and the development of sustainable, cost-effective environmental policies.

The Output of Diplomatic Concepts in the Process of Railway Cooperation and Construction between China and Southeast Asian Countries under the Background of “the Belt and Road Initiative” — Taking the China-Laos Railway as an Example.

This paper focuses on China's railway construction cooperation in Southeast Asia, taking the China-Laos Railway as a typical case. It expounds on the differences between the China-Laos Railway and Western countries in railway construction in Laos, including investment leadership, construction standards, cooperation concepts, and operation and maintenance models. It detailedly shows the specific manifestations of the new cooperation model of the China-Laos Railway, such as exporting material resources in infrastructure construction and adhering to the diplomatic concept of mutual benefit and win-win results. It analyzes the positive impacts of China's railway diplomacy with Southeast Asia on world diplomacy, including providing cooperation examples for various countries, promoting economic development, enhancing regional cooperation consciousness, and supplementing and developing the world's diplomatic concepts. Finally, it emphasizes that under the background of the “Belt and Road Initiative”, this cooperation model has a profound and positive impact on the world's diplomatic concepts and contributes Chinese wisdom and solutions.

The role of cross-border cooperation programme in de-marginalisation of peripheral border regions

ABSTRACT The objective of this paper is to identify the effects of cross-border cooperation undertaken within the framework of the 2014–2020 Poland-Russia Program, implemented in times of geopolitical instability. The analysis is based on a survey conducted with the beneficiaries of the program. The study was carried out in the Polish border area located in the immediate vicinity of the Kaliningrad Oblast (a militarized Russian exclave). The authors prove that the CBC in peripheral border areas along the external borders of the European Union is one of the key factors enabling their socio-economic stabilization, which determines the stakeholders’ efforts to cooperate with non-EU partners. In addition, the study shows that the new geopolitical paradigm (triggered by the outbreak of full-scale war in Ukraine), together with a sense of insecurity, are factors that end cooperation in peripheral border regions with an unsafe neighbourhood.

Spatial correlation and urban collaborative governance of air pollution in Anhui province based on complex networks

To promote the greening of the economy and sustainable development, and to achieve a win-win situation for the economy and the environment.By constructing and analyzing the complex network, this study provides a new perspective for understanding the spatial and temporal dynamics of air pollution, and provides a scientific basis for formulating effective air quality improvement measures.This study investigated the seasonal evolution and spatial correlation of air pollutants and AQI in 16 cities in Anhui Province. A weighted undirected complex network for AQI was constructed based on the average correlation coefficients of AQI between different cities, using the ratio of the average correlation coefficient to the distance of the cities as weights. By analyzing the overall statistical characteristics, node importance of the network, and dividing the network into communities, the results show that the atmospheric environmental quality in Anhui Province has significantly improved from 2018 to 2023. Bengbu, Chuzhou, and Hefei occupy the core positions in the network correlation, exhibiting the strongest ability to spread air pollution. The relationship between GDP and AQI between different cities was analysed using the grey correlation method. By combining the results of community division, the correlation between GDP and AQI, and the consideration of policy factors, it is expected that this comprehensive analysis will provide more effective strategies for pollution management, such as optimising and upgrading the industrial structure, perfecting the synergistic management system of air pollution prevention and control among cities, and strengthening regional cooperation for coordinated urban development.

"If there was a quick and easy way to participate": The engagement of United Kingdom radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging departments in research strategy.

Research strategies support professionals to create a shared vision and work towards common objectives which can enhance workforce satisfaction, retention and patient experience. Our research aimed to capture the current number of United Kingdom (UK) radiotherapy and diagnostic imaging departments that have a local discipline specific research strategy in place. We also sought to understand the contributing factors to their development, with the aim of generating models of support to enhance future local research strategies. A discipline specific cross-sectional survey was co-developed by the research team, the College of Radiographers (CoR) and our patient and public involvement and engagement representative. Distribution was via the CoR to radiotherapy and imaging departments across the UK. Complete responses were received from 32 radiotherapy and 19 imaging departments, discipline specific strategy numbers were low with only 10 and 3 departments respectively having one in situ. Barriers and enablers to their development as well as disparate motivations and intentions to develop a strategy were evident within and across each discipline. The respondents identified a range of formats and topics to help the development of strategies. Radiographers are keen to develop and implement their own research ideas, however this work is additional to clinical service demand. Removing barriers to research participation is a strategic priority, regional cooperation and coordination may play an increasing role in research engagement, scale and support. Opportunities to increase ownership and confidence in research strategy development should be pursued including template strategies and professional facilitation. A discipline specific strategy would support departments to navigate the complexities of research regulation and policy and overcome the challenges faced by competing priorities.

A Long-Term Perspective of Seasonal Shifts in Nutrient Dynamics and Eutrophication in the Romanian Black Sea Coast

This study investigates the long-term seasonal shifts in nutrient dynamics and eutrophication processes in the Romanian Black Sea coastal waters using multi-decadal data (1960/1976/1980–2023). The findings highlight significant seasonal and interannual changes, revealing a progressive rise in seawater temperature, declining oxygen concentrations, and notable shifts in nutrient stoichiometry, particularly an increasing nitrogen–phosphorus (N:P) ratio. These changes are closely associated with increased occurrences of harmful algal blooms (Noctiluca scintillans), emphasizing the complex relationship between warming, nutrient and dissolved oxygen cycles, and biological activity. Seasonal patterns show that prolonged warmer periods, especially during autumn, exacerbate oxygen depletion and nutrient imbalances, with implications for marine life and food webs. The study underscores the importance of targeted nitrogen reduction strategies, including optimized fertilizer use, improved wastewater treatment, and the establishment of buffer zones to minimize land-based nutrient inputs. Regional cooperation and integrated coastal management aligned with the Marine Strategy Framework Directive are essential for mitigating eutrophication. The results provide critical insights into the impacts of climate change on the Black Sea ecosystems. This research contributes to global efforts under SDG 13 (Climate Action), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), addressing the key challenges to marine biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystem sustainability.

The Economic Implications of Data Monetization in a Digital-First Economy

The digital-first economy has catalyzed an unprecedented shift in the valuation and utilization of data as a primary economic asset. This research delves into the multifaceted economic implications of data monetization, focusing on its role as a pivotal driver of growth, innovation, and policy development. As businesses increasingly leverage data to create new revenue streams, the study examines the evolving dynamics of value creation, competition, and inequality. It investigates the interplay between data-centric business models, market structures, and consumer privacy concerns, offering insights into how regulatory frameworks must adapt to balance innovation with ethical considerations. By analyzing case studies and employing econometric modeling, this research underscores the transformative potential of data monetization while addressing its societal and economic risks. Key findings highlight the necessity for equitable data-sharing mechanisms and global regulatory cooperation to prevent monopolistic tendencies and ensure inclusive economic benefits.

Russian Arctic: logic of foreign policy multi-vectorality and national interests of Russia

Modern international relations are undergoing colossal changes and are currently in a turbulent state. The Arctic region, as part of the geopolitical system, is subject to the infl uence of world politics. Processes affecting regional cooperation radically change the regional geopolitical structure. The Russian Federation, which has direct national interests in this region, faces new challenges and threats in it. To overcome them, Russia must be guided by the idea of long-term planning and proceed from its national interests in its politics implementation. National interests at the core of policy, a longterm planning horizon, as well as balanced interaction with regional actors will allow Russia to build a multi-faceted, well-thought-out strategy in the Arctic region.

The evolution of ASEAN's language policies: A diachronic analysis of official documents and website.

Language policy plays a pivotal role in sustaining language behaviors and transforming language ideologies into practices. While the analysis of language policies in international organizations has received increasing attention, the evolution of language policies in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) has been understudied. Existing research on ASEAN's language policies has concentrated on its official language, often overlooking the language practices and ideologies embedded within these policies. This study seeks to investigate the evolution of ASEAN's language policy by examining its official documents and website. We employed the Wayback Machine to trace the development of the ASEAN official website and adopted a corpus-based approach, utilizing tools such as AntConc and Sketch Engine, to analyze the Chairman's Statements of the ASEAN Summit (CSAS). The study reveals three key insights: 1) The evolution of the ASEAN official website can be categorized into three distinct stages. 2) A consistent use of the collective pronoun "we" in the statements highlights the emphasis on cooperation and progress across economic and political-security domains. 3) The ASEAN community has persistently upheld its values, fostering an ASEAN identity and a genuine ASEAN community throughout its development. This diachronic analysis clarifies the characteristics of ASEAN's language policy, deepening our understanding of the intricate relationship between language practices and ideology, and their implications for regional cooperation and integration.

EVALUATING SINO-US INTERESTS IN THE INDO-PACIFIC REGION: A NEO-FUNCTIONALIST PERSPECTIVE

This article explores the evolving power dynamics between the US and China in the Indo-Pacific region, focusing on how rivalry between these actors can be reduced to foster greater cooperation and regional integration. ASEAN's role in promoting stability and institutional cooperation is examined as a key factor in shaping the region's security. The paper discusses whether diplomatic and economic cooperation, despite rising Sino-American tensions, can contribute to the development of regional institutional cooperation mechanisms. Using a functionalist/neo-functionalist framework, it analyzes how the conflict-cooperation dichotomy between the US, China, and their interactions with ASEAN and other regional actors impacts the Indo-Pacific security structure. The study argues, consistent with neo-functionalist postulates, that mutual cooperation, including ASEAN’s diplomatic efforts, is crucial for enhancing regional integration and stability. Addressing the security dilemma requires strategic cooperation that considers all actors' concerns, such as open trade routes and energy security. The paper concludes that a new Cold War-like scenario between Washington and Beijing, where both vie for regional hegemony, is unlikely in the Indo-Pacific’s multipolar context. Instead, ASEAN plays a vital role in fostering regional stability through institutional mechanisms, making institutional cooperation a viable model for reducing tensions and creating stability in the region.

Transnational Terrorism and State Responses: A Comparative Study in Pakistan

Purpose: The aim of the study was to analyze the transnational terrorism and state responses: a comparative study in Pakistan. Methodology: This study adopted a desk methodology. A desk study research design is commonly known as secondary data collection. This is basically collecting data from existing resources preferably because of its low cost advantage as compared to a field research. Our current study looked into already published studies and reports as the data was easily accessed through online journals and libraries. Findings: Pakistan’s battle against transnational terrorism is shaped by various external and internal factors, notably the spillover of extremist networks from neighboring regions, porous borders, and long-standing socio-political tensions. In response, the state has employed a mix of military operations, counterterrorism legislation, and intelligence-sharing initiatives, supplemented by attempts at social and economic reforms. Comparative analyses show that while Pakistan’s strategy has disrupted numerous terror networks, persistent challenges include inconsistent implementation of policies, limited regional cooperation, and the need for a more comprehensive approach that addresses both security and underlying socioeconomic grievances. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Realist theory, liberal institutionalism & constructivism may be used to anchor future studies on transnational terrorism and state responses: a comparative study in Pakistan. States should adopt a holistic approach to counterterrorism that integrates military, diplomatic, and economic strategies. Policymakers must develop balanced frameworks that incorporate military actions alongside diplomatic engagement, development aid, and conflict resolution initiatives.

The Pan-Asian Railway: Opportunities and Challenges

This study explores the profound impact of the Pan-Asian Railway (PAR) on Southeast Asias economy, regional security, and geopolitics. As a key part of Chinas Belt and Road Initiative, the railway improves regional infrastructure, boosts trade, tourism, and industrialization, particularly by reducing transportation costs and enhancing exports. The project has strengthened regional security cooperation, especially in combating drug trafficking and cross-border crimes. Chinas influence in Southeast Asia has grown through economic and political ties, furthering its geopolitical presence in the region. Despite significant economic benefits and regional integration, the Pan-Asian Railway faces challenges such as environmental impact, financial sustainability, and geopolitical tensions. The success of the project will depend on political cooperation, environmental safeguards, and effective financial management in the future.

Contribution from the SAARC Region to Ophthalmic Research: A Bibliometric Analysis

Objective: To review the contributions to the ophthalmic research from the SAARC region in the top twenty ophthalmology journals. Methods: This was a bibliometric study and the top 20 ophthalmology journals, as ranked by the Scimago Journal Rankings (SJR) from 2021 and 2022 (two years), were selected for analysis. Only original research articles were included in the analysis. Articles were analysed based on authorship, corresponding authorship, and research centres within the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) region (Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka). The main research topics were also examined. This data was recorded on Microsoft excel sheet and then descriptive analysis were calculated. Results: Of the total 4952 articles reviewed, 208 (4.2%) had authorship from the SAARC region. Of the 38079 authors in total, 1133 (2.97%) were from the SAARC region and 715 (63.1%) were male. The authors from India contributed the most (n=1074, 94.8%) articles. Of the 155 corresponding authors from SAARC, 150 (96.78%) were from India. Research centres from India were the leading contributors, (n=166, 93.26%). Out of all the publications, medical retina accounted for 1546 (31.22%) of the total articles. Conclusions: Compared to its share of the world’s population, the SAARC region’s research contribution to the top twenty ophthalmology journals is nominal. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.2.10581 How to cite this: Mahsood YJ, Khan R, Wakil H, Farooq S, Zia R. Contribution from the SAARC Region to Ophthalmic Research: A Bibliometric Analysis. Pak J Med Sci. 2025;41(2):614-621. doi: https://doi.org/10.12669/pjms.41.2.10581 This is an Open Access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0), which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.

Local elite perceptions on the EU's agenda to promote regional cooperation in Central Asia

ABSTRACT The 2019 European Union’s (EU) renewed Strategy for Central Asia prioritizes closer regional cooperation among Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. This study aims to examine the perspectives of intermediate elites in Central Asian countries on the EU's role in the region, exploring potential differences in their views on various aspects of the EU regional cooperation promotion agenda. It also seeks to identify the areas where these elites perceive the EU's efforts to promote regional cooperation as most influential. The questions are addressed through the results of online survey conducted among local policy analytics experts, diplomats, and journalists. The research findings indicate that as well as there is a general positive attitude towards EU, a local skepticism regarding EU geopolitical motivations and strategic coherence persists. Furthermore,the EU's potential positive effect on fostering regional cooperation in Central Asia, acknowledged by local elites, is in the domains of education and economic and environmental cooperation as well as there is a general perception on the EU democracy promotion. This article arguesthe EU's ability to effectively advance regional cooperation in Central Asia is contingent upon strategically prioritizing key areas of engagement appreciated by local elites.

Assessment of Dangerous Goods Transport: Case Western Balkan Countries

The transportation of dangerous goods (TDG) is a critical component of economic systems, especially in regions such as the Western Balkans (WB), where infrastructure and regulatory frameworks face significant challenges. This study assesses the current state of transportation of dangerous goods in Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Kosovo*, focusing on the alignment of national regulations with international standards such as the ADR agreement. Using a structured questionnaire distributed to 847 stakeholders, key barriers are identified, including inadequate infrastructure, insufficient training, limited oversight and low public awareness. Statistical analyses, including paired t-tests, reveal significant differences in perceptions across the countries surveyed, indicating inequalities in implementation and enforcement. Despite these challenges, there are opportunities to close gaps through targeted investments in infrastructure, increased training programs, stricter compliance and regional cooperation. The findings underscore the need for comprehensive data collection systems and advanced risk assessment tools to improve safety and efficiency. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of TDG issues in the WB countries and provides actionable recommendations for policy makers and practitioners to promote safer and more sustainable practices. The region can improve its TDG framework by addressing these challenges and ensuring economic growth and public safety while minimizing environmental risks.

Ядерная проблема КНДР сквозь призму интересов России и Китая

This article examines China’s and Russia’s views on the DPRK nuclear issue and strategy toward the DPRK, as well as the future direction and impact of the DPRK nuclear issue on the national security of the Northeast Asian region. The subject of the study is the DPRK nuclear issue. The object of the study is regional security in Northeast Asia. The author elaborates on aspects of the topic such as the deepening of the Korean Peninsula problem, why China and Russia are pushing for denuclearization, regional cooperation in Northeast Asia, and the security situation in Northeast Asia. The purpose of this article is to understand the impact of the DPRK nu-clear issue on the national security of the Northeast Asian region at the present stage and propose appropriate solutions. The novelty of the study is that sanctions may not be the right way, and only the joint cooperation of many parties and smooth development can effectively solve the problems.

Евроатлантическая активность в Индо-Тихоокеанском регионе в контексте СВО: угрозы для Китая

The article is devoted to the study of the impact of the strategic interaction between the United States and NATO on the Indo-Pacific region in the context of intensifying geopolitical competition with China and Russia. It examines the reasons and consequences of NATO’s expansion in this region, as well as the implementation of the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy. Particular attention is paid to the role of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine as a catalyst for strengthening cooperation between Western allies and Asian countries in deterring China. The study focuses on the implications for China, including challenges to its territorial integrity, economic and political stability. The aim of the article is to analyze the U.S. and NATO strategy in the Indo-Pacific region, its impact on the regional order and China’s interests, as well as to identify the geopolitical consequences of this strategy for international relations. The objectives of the research include: studying the historical prerequi-sites for NATO’s involvement in the regional politics of Asia, identifying the key aspects of the U.S. Indo-Pacific strategy, analyzing the impact of the Russia-Ukraine conflict on the implementation of the American strategy in Asia, identifying challenges for China in the context of increased U.S. and NATO presence in the region, evalu-ating China’s countermeasures, and assessing the prospects for regional cooperation. The article employs methods of systemic analysis and a historical-political approach. The research draws on the works of leading international relations theorists such as John Mearsheimer and Zbigniew Brzezinski, as well as an analysis of U.S. strategic documents. The comparative analysis method is used to examine interactions between the Unit-ed States, NATO, and their Asian partners. The empirical base includes official U.S. and NATO strategies and statements, as well as data on international alliances and exercises.

La gobernanza regional compleja del comercio electrónico latinoamericano: una perspectiva comparada de la Alianza del Pacífico, la Comunidad Andina y el Mercosur

Objective/context: The proliferation in the number, depth, and scope of e-commerce agreements has integrated shared agendas and memberships within Latin America’s complex regional governance, making cooperation and fragmentation non-exclusive practices. Therefore, this article asks about the conditions that have facilitated or limited the development of a Latin American digital market. Methodology: A comparative qualitative analysis of the Pacific Alliance, the Andean Community, and Mercosur, together with process tracing, will shed light on their progress in this area, taking into account the degree of linkage they maintain with three mechanisms that foster collaboration and coordination dynamics among various institutions an d actors. Conclusions: The analysis shows that, within systems characterized by growing institutional density and diversity— such as the Latin American e-commerce environment—regional cooperation can be facilitated when regional trade agreements are embedded in a broader trade regime, where there is a clear sequencing among different agreements, and when orchestrators and policy networks are present. In contrast, their absence leads to ineffective agreement implementation and increased regional fragmentation. Originality: This work connects studies on complex regional governance with a relatively underexplored agenda in Latin American academic literature: e-commerce.

An analysis of balochistan’s strategic location and its impact on global power dynamics

Balochistan strategic location is at the crossroads of Iran, Afghanistan and Arabian sea have push it to global prominence. Its proximity to the Middle East, Central Asia, and South Asia makes Balochistan a vital link for international trade, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor and Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline. The 770-kilometer Arabian Sea coastline further strengthen its importance for global maritime trade. However, there is some sort of challenges like insurgency, sectarian violence, and human rights concerns have drawn international exploration which causes little hurdles for regional stability in surrounding. therefore, Balochistan has become a focal point for global powers like China, the US, and European nations seeking to advance economic interests, counter-terrorism, and regional cooperation due to its geostrategic significances. This research work will highlight the concept of nationalism, issues of missing persons and foreign involvement in the region.

Competitive institutionalized cooperation in Central Asia and externally guided regionalism

ABSTRACT This study examines regionalism and regionalization as political phenomena, with a particular focus on Central Asia. The paper addresses a simple question: How and why has regionalism in Central Asia evolved into its current form? Despite the rapid development of regional cooperation and an increase in institutional frameworks in the area, scepticism about the prospects for successful regional cooperation persists in both academic and public policy circles. At the same time, there is a strong desire among stakeholders for a firmly institutionalized regionalism. To explain the characteristics and direction of regionalism, this paper proposes an analytical framework comprising three essential but non-exhaustive elements: positionality, motivation, and functionality. By utilizing multiple empirical sources related to the region and applying them to this framework, the paper demonstrates how and why Central Asian regionalism can be defined as an externally guided regionalism.