Strategic Significance of the Geopolitical Triangle: Balkans, South Caucasus, Middle East for Central and Eastern Europe Implementing the Three Seas Initiative (3SI)

Abstract

The subject of the research work is the countries of the Three Seas Initiative, the Balkans, the South Caucasus, and the Middle East, which are creating new trade routes with a global dimension. The adopted research question is: What is the significance of the Balkans, South Caucasus, and Middle East Triangle for the role and position of Central and Eastern Europe implementing the Three Seas Initiative? To obtain an answer to the research question, proper methods were applied, which include historical and structural analysis, as well as case studies based on neorealism. They contributed to the thesis, claiming that this geopolitical triangle will provide a dynamic growth of the Three Seas Initiative’s states’ power in international relations as a global hub for trade and expanding economic and political balance of power. However, the key issue is the identity of Central and Eastern Europe, which shapes interests and the position in international relations. The results show the significance and importance of answering the research question because they help explain the process of shaping the new world order, in which supply chains and trade routes are key elements.