Saudi Arabia's strategic role in the new world order

Arab News

15-05-2025

https://arab.news/md85y
President Donald Trump's declaration during the US-Saudi Investment Forum in Riyadh on Tuesday that America will lift its sanctions on Syria was not merely a change in American foreign policy — it was a signal of the geopolitical evolution currently underway in the Middle East and beyond. The fact that such a consequential announcement came not from Washington, Brussels or the UN headquarters in New York but from the Saudi capital underscores Riyadh's growing influence in shaping global outcomes.
The forum itself has grown into a pivotal platform where transformative regional and international decisions are unveiled. Its significance lies not just in the participation of high-profile leaders, but in what it symbolizes: the emergence of Saudi Arabia as a diplomatic power center — no longer defined solely by its economic wealth or religious importance, but increasingly by its political foresight, strategic initiatives and ability to convene power brokers across ideological and geopolitical divides.
Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whose leadership continues to redefine the role of the Kingdom in regional and global affairs, played a central role in facilitating the Syria sanctions breakthrough. Joined virtually by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the crown prince oversaw talks that reflect a new regionalism — one that prioritizes practical cooperation, long-term stability and a departure from the failed policies of the post-Arab Spring era. In a world increasingly moving away from unilateralism, the Saudi-led model of inclusive dialogue and shared regional responsibility offers a compelling blueprint for conflict resolution and reintegration.
The implications for Syria are profound. After more than a decade of conflict, foreign intervention, economic collapse and humanitarian catastrophe, this announcement represents the first credible step toward normalcy. The US' lifting of sanctions — long a symbol of international isolation — opens a path for reconstruction, investment and diplomatic engagement. Crucially, it signals to the Syrian people that the world is willing to support a new chapter — if their leadership embraces genuine change.
The Saudi-led model of inclusive dialogue and shared regional responsibility offers a compelling blueprint
Hani Hazaimeh
For too long, Syria has served as a battleground for proxy wars and ideological showdowns, often at the expense of its citizens. Now, under a new leadership framework, the country stands at a pivotal juncture. Reintegration into the regional system and the global community will depend on the new Syrian government's ability to meet expectations — chiefly, to uphold human rights, ensure inclusive governance and rebuild a state that serves its people rather than represses them. This is not a carte blanche but an opportunity — facilitated by Riyadh — to demonstrate a commitment to a new political and social contract.
Saudi Arabia's involvement is not incidental — it is foundational. Over the past few years, the Kingdom has emerged as a quiet but powerful broker of peace. From hosting Sudanese peace negotiations to leading Arab League reconciliation efforts and supporting global humanitarian causes, Saudi diplomacy has transitioned from behind-the-scenes influence to front-line leadership. The Syria initiative is yet another manifestation of this shift.
Furthermore, Saudi Arabia's strategic balancing between global powers — maintaining close ties with the US while expanding its partnerships with China, Russia and other emerging economies — has given it a unique edge. It is able to speak to all sides, understand their strategic imperatives and mediate with credibility. This equidistant diplomacy allows Saudi Arabia to act as a trusted interlocutor in conflict zones that often defy resolution through traditional channels.
The economic dimension of this realignment is equally critical. The lifting of sanctions on Syria, especially in coordination with a regional power like Saudi Arabia, sends a clear signal to investors, institutions and international agencies: Syria is now potentially open for business, under new conditions. Saudi Arabia, through its sovereign funds and public-private partnerships, may play a leading role in Syria's reconstruction. More importantly, it can ensure that such investments are tied to benchmarks of stability, transparency and development — a vision that aligns with both regional security and Vision 2030's broader ambitions.
Vision 2030, often seen through the lens of internal reform, must also be recognized as a geopolitical doctrine. It projects Saudi Arabia not merely as a regional leader but as a global partner — capable of hosting G20 summits, leading digital transformation efforts through the Saudi Authority for Data and Artificial Intelligence, and now influencing postconflict transitions in one of the most devastated countries in the region. The convergence of technology, diplomacy and economic diversification gives Riyadh unmatched leverage in the evolving global order.
Vision 2030, often seen through the lens of internal reform, must also be recognized as a geopolitical doctrine
Hani Hazaimeh
Trump's decision to make this announcement in Riyadh reflects a broader truth: the center of gravity in global diplomacy is shifting. The Middle East, long regarded as a source of instability, is now producing solutions — driven by regional actors that are stepping into leadership vacuums. Saudi Arabia, with its financial power, cultural reach and increasingly sophisticated statecraft, is not just reacting to global changes — it is initiating them.
For Syria, the path forward remains fraught with challenges. Internal political reconciliation, the return of refugees, rebuilding infrastructure and addressing a traumatized society will take time and vision. But with regional support — particularly from a partner as committed and capable as Saudi Arabia — the possibility of renewal is real. Riyadh's facilitation of Syria's diplomatic rehabilitation marks a pivotal test for the future of the region: can Arab states reclaim agency over their affairs and shape a future that prioritizes people over power, stability over chaos and cooperation over confrontation?
Saudi Arabia's leadership today is not about dominance — it is about direction. The Kingdom is setting the tone for what the Middle East can become in the 21st century: a hub of innovation, diplomacy and responsible power. And in doing so, it is not just transforming its own identity but reshaping the narrative of an entire region.
History may record the lifting of US sanctions on Syria as a turning point. But even more importantly, it will remember where it happened — and who made it possible.