Key Points:
Within the GCC and the Muslim world, the current geopolitical dynamics create an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to play a crucial role in resolving conflicts and fostering cooperation among nations.
Saudi Arabia’s efforts to diversify allies and partners within the GCC and the Muslim world signify a strategic move to support long-term goals and reduce dependency on specific resources.
Emphasizing the significance of reproachment for the GCC and the wider Muslim world, Saudi Arabia seeks a peaceful Middle East that fosters collaboration and stability among nations.
Within the context of the GCC and the Muslim world, the reproachment between Saudi Arabia and other key players holds the potential to attract foreign investments and tourists, supporting a vision of progress and development.
The GCC, the wider Muslim world, and Saudi Arabia stand to benefit from a more stable and prosperous region if the reproachment leads to positive outcomes and resolves longstanding conflicts.
NHS Media had the opportunity to interview Dr. Najah Al-Otaibi, a Middle East expert known for her research on the GCC and the relations between Great Britain and Saudi Arabia. The focus of their discussion was on the prospects of reproachment between Iran and Saudi Arabia and its potential impact on the GCC and the wider Muslim world.
Dr. Otaibi began by noting that historically, Saudi Arabia and China have shared a strong economic relationship, with China being the largest exporter of Saudi oil and a significant trade partner. However, recent developments indicate that China is viewing itself as a potential player in Middle Eastern geopolitics. With the United States showing indifference towards certain Middle Eastern issues, China sees an opportunity to play a role in resolving conflicts and bringing parties together.
Regarding the Saudi-Iran reproachment, Dr. Otaibi emphasized its importance for China’s interests in the region. China, as a major player in the global economy with initiatives like the Belt and Road, seeks a peaceful Middle East to facilitate collaboration between different continents and countries.
While making a comparison between the receptions of Donald Trump and President Xi during their visits to Saudi Arabia and Arab leaders who stood behind Trump in the past, they also extended a warm welcome to President Xi. Dr. Otaibi pointed out that Saudi Arabia aims to maintain equal relations with both China and the United States, as both countries are beneficial to its interests. The Saudis are diversifying their allies and partners to support their Vision 2030 and reduce dependency on oil.
Talking about Saudi-Iran reproachment. Dr. Otaibi noted that the Middle East is weary of conflicts, and a reproachment between Iran and Saudi Arabia is vital for regional stability. Escalation with Iran poses a threat to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, which seeks to attract foreign investors and tourists. On the other hand, Iran, facing economic struggles and isolation, also needs Saudi Arabia and the neighbouring GCC countries.
While responding to the question of whether the reproachment would lead to a 180-degree shift in societal and government relations between the two countries or take time to normalize. Dr. Otaibi expressed hope for a positive change, emphasizing that both countries are tired of conflicts. The normalization of relations could ease tensions not only between Saudi Arabia and Iran but also in the wider Middle East.
Regarding Yemen’s war, Dr. Otaibi agreed that there is potential for positive change, but the Yemeni conflict remains complicated, requiring global cooperation beyond just Saudi Arabia and Iran.
Talking about Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and its transformation of society Dr. Otaibi highlighted the significant progress made in the last five years, with reforms in various sectors such as human rights, women’s rights, and the economy. Vision 2030 has contributed to Saudi Arabia becoming an important tourism hub, attracting tourists beyond the Muslim world.
Addressing the role of Saudi Arabia in the Muslim world, Dr. Otaibi clarified that while there may be a regulation in humanitarian assistance, Saudi Arabia will continue its generous foreign policy.
Responding to the question regarding Saudi Arabia’s aspiration to make NEOM a center of the Middle East. Dr. Otaibi expressed confidence in Saudi Arabia’s potential as a top tourist destination due to its diverse geography and cultural assets, setting it apart from neighboring countries like Dubai and Qatar.
All in all Dr. Najah Al-Otaibi shed light on the significance of the Saudi-Iran reproachment and its potential implications for the GCC and the larger Muslim world. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, along with ongoing efforts to diversify allies and embrace tourism, is shaping the country’s global image. The future holds promise for a more stable and prosperous Middle East if the reproachment leads to positive outcomes and the resolution of longstanding conflicts.