Ukrainian President Zelensky visits Saudi Arabia as Riyadh positions itself as a global mediator, aiming to shift its image from repression to diplomacy. Saudi Arabia’s strategic ties allow it to facilitate conflict resolution in various international disputes. Despite facing criticism over human rights issues, the Kingdom extends its mediation efforts across conflicts beyond Ukraine, essential for its global ambitions and US foreign policy alignment.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky is visiting Saudi Arabia as Riyadh aims to enhance its image as a global mediator. Engaging with Kyiv, Moscow, and Washington, Saudi Arabia seeks to transition from a reputation based on repression to one centered around diplomacy, utilizing its extensive global connections to facilitate conflict resolution.
Zelensky’s discussions with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman underscore Saudi Arabia’s rising role in international diplomacy. Historically focused on oil and security, the Kingdom is now embracing mediation in global conflicts, leveraging its relationships despite its controversial human rights record.
Under Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s leadership, Saudi Arabia has proven its negotiation capabilities, particularly evident in the prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine. Notable is the September 2022 agreement that led to the release of 10 foreign prisoners, bolstering Riyadh’s standing as an effective mediator in complex international disputes.
As the premier oil producer, Saudi Arabia recognizes that enduring conflicts strain energy markets, making global stability vital. Beyond the Ukraine crisis, the Kingdom is extending its mediation efforts to conflicts in Sudan, Iran, and Syria, advocating for dialogue and solutions in line with its ambition to foster peace globally.
For the United States, ensuring Saudi Arabia’s involvement in diplomatic pursuits is critical for promoting the Abraham Accords, which normalize relations between Israel and Arab nations. Aryeh Lightstone, a former senior advisor, noted the significant transformation of Israel’s regional position due to these accords, which bolster Saudi Arabia’s importance in the Middle East.
Despite its enhanced diplomatic stature, Saudi Arabia faces ongoing international criticism regarding human rights. The murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi remains a pivotal issue, creating skepticism about the Kingdom’s sincerity in its diplomatic endeavors. Additionally, serious concerns persist over women’s rights and political repression, exemplified by the severe prison sentences given to activists.
To counteract its negative image, Saudi Arabia is stepping forward as a global negotiator. It has organized high-level meetings related to the Ukraine conflict, although the criticism regarding the exclusion of crucial stakeholders, like the EU and Ukraine, indicates that its diplomatic role remains complex and challenging.
Saudi Arabia is actively redefining its global image as a diplomatic mediator, focusing on conflict resolution beyond its oil-rich identity. By engaging with multiple global players and facilitating negotiations, particularly around the Ukraine crisis, Riyadh is leveraging its unique relationships. However, ongoing concerns regarding human rights abuses could undermine its efforts to be perceived as a credible broker for peace.p
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
