Experts in the News

A recent trip to Armenia brought ambassador to the American University of Armenia, where he talked to students about his experiences as a U.S. diplomat.

Saudi Arabia's state-owned oil company is likely to increase its production to meet rising demand this year, according to the company's chief executive, The Wall Street Journal reports.

"If the Saudis want to avoid being stuck with most of their reserves stranded underground, the signs now say they better sell it off sooner rather than late," said fellow Jim Krane. 

The Wall Street Journal (subscription required): http://on.wsj.com/1OdHctj

Torrential rains fall in the Houston area more often than they used to, according to an unpublished analysis from state climatologist John Nielsen-Gammon, the Houston Chronicle reports.

"He's probably spot on," said Ronald L. Sass, fellow in global climate change. "He's as close to the truth as I've seen."

Houston Chronicle (subscription required): http://bit.ly/1T3RiJZ.

Saudi Arabia dismissed its long-serving oil minister, Ali al-Naimi, as the country grapples with weak oil prices, The Wall Street Journal reports.

"They need a ministry that can take a more holistic approach to energy," said Jim Krane, Wallace S. Wilson Fellow for Energy Studies. “They’re working to rationalize their energy policy.”

The Wall Street Journal (subscription required): http://on.wsj.com/1TOJvSD

Former Secretary of State James A. Baker, III, praised Saudi Arabia's plan to sell public shares in its national oil company. Reuters: http://reut.rs/1T6H4ZB