The Foreign Policy of Saudi Arabia Under Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman (MBS)

Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS), the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, has ushered in a new era of foreign policy for the Kingdom. Since ascending to power in 2017, MBS has implemented a series of bold and ambitious reforms, both domestically and internationally. This blog aims to delve into the foreign policy of Saudi Arabia under MBS, analyzing its key objectives, regional engagements, international alliances, and the impact of these policies on the global stage.

Vision 2030: A Paradigm Shift in Saudi Arabia's Foreign Policy:

Central to MBS's foreign policy vision is Saudi Arabia's ambitious reform program, Vision 2030. This section will explore how Vision 2030 has influenced and shaped the Kingdom's approach to foreign relations. It will examine the diversification of the Saudi economy, the emphasis on attracting foreign investments, and the promotion of cultural and social reforms as tools for enhancing Saudi Arabia's international standing.

Changing Dynamics in the Middle East:

MBS's foreign policy has been shaped by the changing dynamics in the Middle East, including regional conflicts, the rise of non-state actors, and power struggles among regional players. Saudi Arabia has sought to assert its influence and counter what it perceives as threats to its security and stability.

a) Yemen: The Saudi-led intervention in Yemen, launched in 2015, exemplifies Saudi Arabia's proactive approach to regional conflicts. MBS has sought to contain the influence of the Iran-backed Houthi rebels and restore the internationally recognized Yemeni government. The Yemeni conflict has significant regional implications, with Saudi Arabia perceiving it as part of a broader struggle for influence against Iran.

b) Iran-Saudi Arabia Rivalry: MBS has taken a confrontational stance against Iran, viewing it as a regional rival and a destabilizing force. This has influenced Saudi Arabia's foreign policy, as the country seeks to counter Iran's influence in the region. The rivalry between the two countries has played out in various proxy conflicts across the Middle East, exacerbating regional tensions. But in recent times the peace mediation between Saudi Arabia and Iran under the efforts of Russia and China has played an important role in de-escalating the tension between the two arch rivals.

Economic Diversification and Vision 2030:

MBS's foreign policy is closely linked to his domestic agenda of economic diversification and the Vision 2030 reform program. Recognizing the need to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependency on oil revenues, MBS has sought foreign investments, strategic partnerships, and economic reforms to drive economic growth and development.

a) Attracting Foreign Investments: MBS has actively courted foreign investments and partnerships to support Saudi Arabia's economic transformation. Initiatives like the Future Investment Initiative (FII) and the creation of NEOM, a futuristic mega-city, aim to attract global investors and diversify the economy beyond oil.

b) Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC): MBS has played an active role in revitalizing the GCC, a regional bloc comprising Arab Gulf states. Through enhanced cooperation and coordination, Saudi Arabia seeks to promote economic integration, security collaboration, and collective resilience against common threats in the region.

Balancing Relations with Global Powers:

Saudi Arabia under MBS has pursued a balancing act in its relations with major global powers, particularly the United States, China, and Russia. MBS has sought to diversify Saudi Arabia's foreign partnerships while maintaining the longstanding alliance with the U.S.

a) Decoupling from the United States: The U.S.-Saudi relationship has remained crucial for Saudi Arabia's foreign policy. MBS has started to decouple from the U.S. through diplomatic engagements, economic agreements, and defense cooperation. However, the relationship has faced scrutiny and challenges from the US. 

b) China: Saudi Arabia has deepened its ties with China, recognizing its economic potential and investment opportunities. MBS has actively courted Chinese investments and sought to enhance bilateral cooperation, particularly in the energy sector. Saudi Arabia's strategic location and its involvement in China's Belt and Road Initiative have contributed to closer ties between the two countries. Saudi Arabia latest announcement on the solidify it's Gold reserves and to accept the Yuan for bilateral trade make both these countries closer than ever before. 

c) Russia: Saudi Arabia has sought to develop a closer relationship with Russia, particularly in the energy sector. Both countries, as major oil producers, have engaged in strategic cooperation and coordination to stabilize global oil markets. The growing ties between Saudi Arabia and Russia have implications for the regional balance of power and Saudi Arabia's traditional alliances. The OPEC+ also played an important role in this concern. 

d). BRICS: Saudi Arabia has also shown its interests in the BRICS. The BRICS now become a powerhouse of the globe economy. Saudi Arabia desperate to join BRICS to grab a foothold in this emergency economic cooperation.

Social and Cultural Reforms:

MBS's foreign policy has been accompanied by a wave of social and cultural reforms within Saudi Arabia. These reforms, including the lifting of restrictions on women's rights, entertainment, and religious practices, aim to project a more moderate and open image of Saudi Arabia to the international community.

a) Women's Rights: MBS has implemented reforms aimed at empowering women and increasing their participation in society. This includes granting women the right to drive, easing restrictions on their ability to travel, and promoting their involvement in the workforce. These changes have been applauded globally and have contributed to a more positive perception of Saudi Arabia.

b) Cultural Liberalization: The easing of restrictions on entertainment and cultural activities has been another notable aspect of MBS's reforms. Saudi Arabia has hosted international events, such as music concerts and sporting competitions, to attract tourism and showcase a more inclusive and vibrant society.

Counterterrorism and Security Cooperation:

 Saudi Arabia has been actively engaged in counterterrorism efforts and security cooperation, recognizing the importance of regional stability and combatting extremist ideologies. MBS has sought to bolster Saudi Arabia's security apparatus and enhance collaboration with international partners.

a) Countering Extremism: Saudi Arabia has undertaken measures to counter extremist ideologies and promote moderate interpretations of Islam. The kingdom has implemented programs to rehabilitate former extremists and has established institutions to combat radicalization. Saudi Arabia also leads efforts to counter terrorist financing and promote global security.

b) Coalition Building: MBS has pursued coalition building in the region to address shared security concerns. The Islamic Military Counter Terrorism Coalition (IMCTC), led by Saudi Arabia, aims to coordinate efforts among Muslim-majority countries to combat terrorism and extremism. This initiative reflects Saudi Arabia's commitment to regional security cooperation.

Human Rights Concerns and International Criticism:

Saudi Arabia's foreign policy under MBS has faced international criticism and scrutiny due to human rights concerns and allegations of political repression. The kingdom's involvement in the Yemeni conflict, the treatment of dissidents, and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi have raised questions about Saudi Arabia's commitment to human rights and democracy. The international community, including human rights organizations, has called for transparency, accountability, and respect for human rights in Saudi Arabia's domestic and foreign policies. These concerns have had implications for Saudi Arabia's international standing and its relations with Western countries.

Conclusion:

The foreign policy of Saudi Arabia under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman reflects a mix of continuity and change. MBS's vision for economic diversification, social reforms, and regional influence has driven significant shifts in Saudi Arabia's approach to foreign relations. The country's engagement in regional conflicts, balancing acts with global powers, social and cultural reforms, counterterrorism efforts, and human rights challenges have all shaped Saudi Arabia's foreign policy under MBS.