2013 saw the transition of power from the former Emir, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, to Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, his fourth son and second son with Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, a move unprecedented elsewhere in the Gulf but not unexpected in Qatar. 

For the past decade Panama has registered impressive economic growth. According to the World Bank, GDP growth averaged 6.8% from 2000 to 2012, while government figures show double-digit growth for four of the past seven years. Economic development has been fuelled by heavy public sector spending on infrastructure, particularly the $5.25bn expansion of the Panama Canal, which should ensure long-term growth.

Although the emirate’s economic growth can be primarily attributed to its vast hydrocarbons resources, it has also made progress diversifying into new sectors such as manufacturing, tourism, aerospace, defence, finance and logistics. In addition to its economic investments, Abu Dhabi has also made major contributions to social welfare as well as infrastructure, which has been identified as the bedrock for future growth.

Following its successful chairmanship of ASEAN in 2013, Brunei Darussalam will look to continue its role as a regional leader in areas ranging from defence to commerce. The increased focus on diversification and the growth of several industries bode well for the economy, and the coming years are expected to see Brunei Darussalam further bolster its position within ASEAN and the international economy.

The “Golden Land”, officially known as the Republic of the Union of Myanmar and formerly as Burma, has undergone dramatic reforms in recent years under the administration of President U Thein Sein. The rapid transition from a military junta to an open economy has surprised the global community and will see Myanmar assume the ASEAN chair for the first time in 2014.