Saudi Arabia: Crown Prince's Tour — Frequently Asked Questions
28 March 2018
By Dr. Khaled M. Batarfi
IT seems whatever our Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Salman says or wherever he
goes, a media storm follows. I was asked by almost every major TV network
about the Crown Prince's visits to Egypt and Britain. Questions cover
politics, economics, military, culture and religious issues. Reporters are
curious about the recent laws that affected social life, empowering women and
youth, while liberating culture, social life and entrainment.
Here's some of my answers to frequently asked questions:
How much success has the UK visit achieved?
I believe the visit has achieved more than we expected. The economic
agreements signed exceeded $100 billion, not including the purchase of 48
Typhoon fighter jets or the signed $30 billion in business deals. Britain has
showed great interest in Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030. It has also confirmed its
firm stance against Iran's blatant interference in the region and security
threats to Saudi Arabia and neighboring countries. Other agreements include
cooperation in education, health, privatization, fighting terrorism and world
poverty.
Why does NEOM stand out among the Vision's projects?
The project's location is of a special interest to both countries as it sets
on one of the world most important sea lanes. The Red Sea accounts for 10
percent of the world's total maritime shipping and 40 percent of oil
shipments.
The area's mountains, valleys, beaches and virgin islands provide an
unparalleled wealth of environmental and tourist treasures. The borders of
Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Jordan converge on the site, implying the integration
of these nations' human and material resources.
The planned King Salman Bridge over the Red Sea is a gateway between the
largest continents in the world — Asia and Africa. It will connect the Silk
Road and Sea Belt as it crosses from China via the Arabian Peninsula onto
North Africa and Europe.
In addition, NEOM is going to be the largest Free Zone in the world, where
foreigners may visit, reside, work, invest and trade without a visa. They may
get 100 percent ownership of properties, projects and businesses. A sign of
things to come: Laws and rules are being written by the stakeholders
themselves.
The area will focus on advanced sciences and new technologies. The three
countries will provide hundreds of billion dollars in public and private
investments, and build advanced, state-of-the-art infrastructure in ultra
green environment.
Britain seems to have changed its position on the war in Yemen after the royal
visit. How will this affect the course of the war?
The British position was and is still supportive of the Arab Alliance to
restore the legitimate government. The visit has helped consolidate that
position. With the new American Administration enthusiastic support of our
stand and its strong resolve against Iran's irresponsible destructive policies
in the region, I believe we are in for a political and/or military final
resolution of the situation.
The Kingdom is experiencing a boom of internal changes. Will this be reflected
on its external policies?
The Saudi Vision is comprehensive, domestically and internationally. It
focuses on the Arab and Islamic constants, builds on previous achievements and
operates within the framework of regional and international alliances that it
leads or participates in. There is no doubt that the strength and cohesion of
the interior is reflected on the state image abroad; its status among nations;
and its ability to achieve objectives and defend national interests and that
of allies and friends.
During a meeting with Egyptian editors, the Crown Prince minimizes the
importance of Qatar issue. What does that mean to the possibility of a
resolution?
It means that Saudi Arabia no longer cares about a solution, and has decided
that life goes on without Qatar. No more mediation is accepted.
How does Saudi society deal with the new changes introduced by the Crown
Prince?
They love it! Especially the youth and women. Let's consider that 70 percent
of our population is under 30, and women are over 50 percent. Both have been
given more power and support by the new laws and initiatives for higher
contribution to national development; the management of their own affairs and
a greater participation in state administration. The Vision has provided them
with glimpses of brighter future that would answer their demands and fulfill
their aspirations and dreams.
There are some of us who have not yet absorbed the Vision and its objectives,
or are not in accord with some of its aspects. This is but an expected
normality. However, the anti-change parts of society represent a minority that
does not affect the general social trend. History is a powerful one-way
train... those who cannot get on board, would be left on their own. Life goes
on!
— Dr. Khaled M. Batarfi is a Saudi writer based in Jeddah. He can be
reached at kbatarfi@gmail.com. Follow him at Twitter:@kbatarfi
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