During the first week of June this year, renowned media outlets worldwide unveiled an intriguing plot: over twenty intelligence chiefs from influential countries had clandestinely met at the Shangri-La Hotel in Singapore. While nearly 600 delegates from all over the globe were present, a noticeable absence was that of the Russian Federation.
Among these eminent officials were the intelligence heads from the United States, China, and India. A highly significant meeting also took place among the chiefs of the countries in the "Five Eyes" alliance (US, UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand) - the world's most extensive intelligence network, dating back to World War II, aimed at facilitating information exchanges between America and Britain, thereby bolstering their war efforts. Post-1945, this alliance evolved to counter the Soviet threat and its Eastern European expansion.
Interestingly, such meetings between chiefs cannot remain secret, despite some wishes, as they require weeks of logistical preparation, stringent security measures, and exchanges regarding the agenda and discussion topics. Particularly, the drafting of the specific agenda for the US and China necessitates considerable time to fine-tune every detail, word by word.
In this case, the focus on security discussions appears markedly less critical than information leaks about the meetings' dates and specifics. It's undeniable that such meetings and debates on intelligence issues remain superficial, with an underlying mistrust among parties. However, this situation raises a valid question: why didn't China insist on Russia's participation? Is it because Russia is no longer considered a major power on par with the US or China? Or did the US and China have discussions on the new global geopolitics? Another hypothesis is that China struck a deal with Russia to devise a plan with the Americans to end the war in Ukraine.
These multiple inquiries provoke thought, but one fact is certain: several bilateral meetings took place between these two giants to avert potential conflict.
Post-Singapore meetings, confidential information slipped out indicating India's gradual distancing from Russia, its long-time primary supplier of heavy weapons. Contrarily, India is leaning towards the US due to escalating tensions with China along their shared border. If India and the US reach an agreement, it would place China in a delicate military position.
While the future of US-India relations remains uncertain, certain elements can't be overlooked. India's increasing estrangement from Russia, coupled with the latter's retreating face from American initiatives to form Pacific region alliances, positions China in a scenario where war is unthinkable. Conscious of these realities and the now public power balance, China will strive to diffuse tensions by taking adequate measures.
Leaked information reveals that China emphasized the imperative of avoiding conflicts and strengthening cooperation among all relevant parties, considering the geopolitical stakes they face. Russia's experience in Ukraine also contributed to shaping a new perception of NATO, particularly in the Western camp, confirming an inescapable reality.
In conclusion, meetings between the intelligence chiefs of major powers stir up multiple questions and concerns, fueling the imagination with scenarios that are more often than not dangerous and anxiety-provoking rather than comforting. The mere mention of intelligence services prompts the average citizen to question what's happening around them. Could a meeting convening all these agencies be envisioned, with discussions focusing on their cooperation or competition in various fields? We have no choice but to wait, aware that most of the questions addressed and the nature of their agreements will forever remain unknown to us.