Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is expediting efforts to strengthen ties with Iran before Donald Trump’s possible return to the U.S. presidency. He has proposed increased trade, building on a previous détente. This maneuver reflects Saudi Arabia’s strategic diplomatic balancing act and aims to advance its Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.
Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is reportedly prioritizing the strengthening of relations with Iran ahead of the anticipated return of Donald Trump to the U.S. presidency. According to a Bloomberg report, bin Salman has presented Iranian officials with an offer of increased trade, aiming to alleviate tensions with the West. This initiative builds upon a March 2023 rapprochement mediated by China, as both nations seek closer ties in a region marked by escalating conflicts.
Though the specific details of bin Salman’s offer remain undisclosed, insights from individuals involved in the earlier agreement indicate that initial trade discussions may focus on food and medical products, which would comply with existing U.S. and European sanctions on Iran. The urgency of this diplomatic maneuver is further underscored by the recent U.S. election results, which suggest a potential revival of Trump’s hardline policies towards Iran.
The Saudis are executing a dual-channel diplomatic approach; enhancing ties with both the United States and Iran is deemed geopolitical imperative. However, this strategy may place the kingdom in a precarious position. The Crown Prince’s overarching priority is the multifaceted Vision 2030 initiative, designed to diversify the Saudi economy away from oil dependency, which necessitates fostering peace and attracting foreign investments.
During the annual investment conference held in Riyadh in late October, Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan emphasized his primary role in safeguarding and promoting the Vision 2030 agenda. Additionally, concerns have been raised by Iranian officials regarding the lack of follow-through on economic and investment commitments from Saudi Arabia under the terms of the Beijing Agreement.
China, a significant oil purchaser from both nations, has encouraged cooperation between Riyadh and Tehran. Experts suggest that increasing trade represents a straightforward and non-contentious method for Saudi Arabia to exhibit its dedication to enhancing dialogue with Iran. A Saudi-Iranian-Chinese committee convened in Riyadh recently to reaffirm commitments and noted the substantial number of Iranian pilgrims visiting Saudi Arabia this year as an indicator of improved relations.
Following a seven-year diplomatic hiatus, Iran and Saudi Arabia reinstated their ties in March 2023 through a Beijing-mediated agreement that included a pledge to respect each other’s national sovereignty and to prevent interference in domestic affairs. Both parties also committed to advancing agreements on security cooperation and enhancing collaboration across various sectors.
The relationship between Saudi Arabia and Iran has historically been fraught with tension, shaped by regional power dynamics and sectarian divides. However, recent diplomatic maneuvers, particularly those mediated by China, aim to mend these differences. The backdrop of U.S. foreign policy, particularly the anticipated return of Donald Trump and his previous stance towards Iran, adds complexity to the situation, compelling Saudi Arabia to reevaluate its foreign relations to ensure national interests and economic stability under the Vision 2030 framework.
In summary, Saudi Arabia is taking significant steps to enhance its relationship with Iran in light of shifting geopolitical landscapes, particularly with Trump’s imminent return to the White House. The proposed trade offers, focusing on sectors compliant with sanctions, reflect a strategic effort to reduce regional tensions and solidify diplomatic ties. This initiative aligns with the goals of Vision 2030, showcasing Saudi Arabia’s commitment to fostering peace and economic diversification in a volatile environment.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
