Zelensky’s Visit to Saudi Arabia Highlights Riyadh’s Diplomatic Shift

President Volodymyr Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia underscores the Kingdom’s efforts to reposition itself as a global mediator. Saudi Arabia’s unique international relationships enable it to engage effectively in conflicts like Ukraine, while also striving for a positive diplomatic image despite a controversial human rights track record. The nation seeks to expand its influence beyond the region and play a pivotal role in international peace efforts, amid ongoing scrutiny over its domestic policies.

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia, highlighting Riyadh’s intent to establish itself as a global mediator. By engaging with Kyiv, Moscow, and Washington, Saudi Arabia is aiming to enhance its diplomatic image and transition from a reputation of repression to one of constructive diplomacy, adeptly utilizing its international relationships to influence conflict resolution.

Zelensky’s engagement with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscores Saudi Arabia’s increasing diplomatic role. Historically perceived as a regional powerhouse focused primarily on oil and security, the kingdom is now emerging as a significant mediator in international disputes, despite its controversial human rights history. Under Bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia has demonstrated its potential by facilitating negotiations, such as organizing prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine.

In September 2022, Saudi Arabia played a pivotal role in securing the release of ten foreign prisoners, including American and British nationals, demonstrating its diplomatic capabilities and reaffirming its position as a credible intermediary in global conflicts. The kingdom’s strategic alliances with key players like Moscow, Kyiv, and Washington empower it to bridge divides effectively where others may struggle.

Moreover, as the leading oil producer worldwide, Saudi Arabia recognizes the importance of global stability in maintaining energy markets, thus necessitating its active involvement in diplomatic efforts. By emphasizing mediation, the Kingdom’s broader diplomatic strategy extends beyond the Ukraine situation and includes engagement in conflicts in Sudan, Iran, and Syria, advocating for solutions through dialogue rather than punitive actions.

For the United States, maintaining Saudi Arabia’s participation in diplomatic endeavors is crucial for promoting the Abraham Accords, which aim to normalize relations between Israel and Arab nations. As noted by former White House adviser Aryeh Lightstone, the accords have significantly transformed Israel’s standing in the region, expanding its relations with pivotal nations. Saudi Arabia’s influence in the Middle East is instrumental in fostering these relations and underscores its diplomatic prowess.

Despite its rising diplomatic stature, Saudi Arabia has faced intense scrutiny over its human rights record, most notably following the 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, allegedly ordered by the Crown Prince, which Riyadh denies. Furthermore, the regime continues to be known for its restrictive policies concerning women’s rights and political dissent, exemplified by the harsh sentencing of women’s rights activist Salma al-Shehab.

In recent developments, Saudi Arabia has significantly ramped up its image rehabilitation by taking on mediation roles, exemplified by handling high-profile diplomacy efforts and facilitating complex negotiations. However, its attempts to host international discussions, such as the one involving US and Russian officials on Ukraine, have faced criticism for not including European and Ukrainian representatives, which some have argued undermines the legitimacy of its role in the conflict.

In conclusion, President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia signifies the Kingdom’s aspiration to be recognized as a key global mediator. Transitioning from its historical image, Saudi Arabia is keen on reshaping its diplomatic presence through engagement in international conflicts while acknowledging its ongoing human rights issues. The nation’s strategic alliances and mediation efforts are critical for advancing not only regional stability but also broader relationships, such as those guided by the Abraham Accords with the United States. Nevertheless, scrutiny about its human rights history poses a challenge to its rebranding efforts in the diplomatic arena.

Original Source: www.rfi.fr