Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will visit Saudi Arabia, reflecting the Kingdom’s efforts to establish itself as a global mediator. Despite its controversial human rights record, Saudi Arabia is leveraging its diplomatic relationships to navigate conflicts like those in Ukraine, Sudan, and Iran, aiming to reshape its international image. The U.S. is interested in this engagement as part of broader Middle Eastern strategies, though the Kingdom’s past actions raise questions regarding its mediation credibility.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine is scheduled to visit Saudi Arabia to discuss diplomatic initiatives with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). This visit underscores Saudi Arabia’s ambition to enhance its image as a global mediator amidst ongoing international conflicts, aiming to transition from a historically repressive image to a more diplomatic role through engagement with Kyiv, Moscow, and Washington.
Historically recognized primarily for its oil resources and security focus, Saudi Arabia is now actively pursuing a role as a mediator in global disputes. Despite its controversial human rights record, the monarchy under Bin Salman has shown capability in negotiation, notably facilitating prisoner exchanges between Russia and Ukraine, exemplified by the successful release of ten foreign captives in September 2022, including Americans and Britons.
Saudi Arabia’s strategic relationships allow it to mediate effectively in international disputes, enhancing its diplomatic stature. As the leading global oil producer, the Kingdom is also acutely aware of the impacts of conflict on energy markets, motivating its efforts in promoting global stability through diplomacy and dialogue over punitive actions.
Saudi Arabia’s engagement in mediation extends beyond the Ukraine crisis. It has undertaken roles in resolving conflicts in Sudan, Iran, and Syria, with an overarching goal of shaping its international identity as a peace promoter. Such diplomatic efforts align with U.S. interests in advancing the Abraham Accords aimed at normalizing relations between Israel and Arab nations.
The incorporation of Saudi initiatives in Middle Eastern diplomacy is crucial for the U.S., as strong ties with Riyadh may further facilitate broader strategic aims, especially in relation to countering Iranian influence. The Kingdom’s involvement in diverse diplomatic talks positions it advantageously within geopolitical contexts.
However, Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic endeavors occur against a backdrop of its problematic human rights record. The 2018 assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi and stringent policies concerning women’s rights have raised significant concerns about the Kingdom’s domestic governance. Activists like Salma al-Shehab have faced severe repercussions for advocating for reforms, highlighting the contradictions between Saudi Arabia’s diplomatic ambitions and its internal practices.
Furthermore, the Kingdom’s high rate of executions continues to attract scrutiny, with mass executions taking place under controversial judicial processes. While attempting to pivot towards a more favorable global image through mediating roles and international summits, Saudi Arabia faces challenges related to its historical human rights violations, affecting perceptions of its sincerity in the global diplomatic arena.
In conclusion, President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia highlights the Kingdom’s determination to redefine itself as a global mediator in international conflicts. While Saudi Arabia is making strides in diplomacy, its complex history of human rights issues and controversial domestic policies remains a significant challenge. Balancing diplomatic aspirations with an established record of repression and ensuring inclusive dialogue in international matters will be crucial for the Kingdom in its quest for a respected global standing.
Original Source: www.rfi.fr
