In recent years Saudi Arabia and the Arab world have continually been on the defensive, in response to internal as well as external attacks. Today we can safely say that a new page is being turned, as we enter an era of political maturity and improved relations with the West.
For Saudi Arabia the learning curve has been steep but we have many successes to show for it. Our holding of, and participation in, major international conferences has been inspiring and impressive. Our progress in combating terrorism is recognized by all. Saudi Arabia’s municipal elections have been greeted as a modest but crucial step on the road to more participatory government.
Saudi Arabia is firmly set on a road of deliberately slow and effective change. Change of course is cumulative. Our progressive approach has already yielded fruits and is set to gather pace, making change solid, effective and transparent.
As Saudi Arabia has matured politically and mended fences at home, the United States has also begun correcting its mistakes, improving its image abroad, and entering into a more honest dialogue with both Europe and the Arab world.
The Arab public has responded positively to the changing tone and circumstances in the Middle East. In Iraq, Palestine, Lebanon and Egypt a new political discourse is emerging. Old ways have given way to new and past mistakes are being consciously avoided. The new politics in Palestine and the mounting peaceful opposition in Lebanon attest to this and carry with them great hopes.
An air of tolerance and consultation has also pervaded the Arab world and its relations with the West. Old hatchets are being buried and we have decided collectively to look toward what can be achieved and how we can encourage more positive transformations.
On his trip to London, Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Saud Al-Faisal, projected a new Saudi poise and readiness to face major issues with maturity and assurance, while drawing realistic and hopeful road maps for the future. Issues such as women’s rights and terrorism were faced with thoughtfulness, understanding and preparedness for collective action.
As Saudi Arabia has met its domestic challenges with maturity and effective and visible change, we are also showing a new confidence in addressing the West and showing that our differences lie in the past, not in the issues we are tackling today. Some Western policies have been corrected, some are being corrected, and we are united in responsibly facing the challenges that remain. Our joint progress on the Israeli-Palestinian issue is illustrative of a new concerted and cogent approach.
These are excellent signs for the Middle East. The Saudi Arabian government and the Arab people are displaying a newfound maturity in meeting diverse and deep-seated conflicts with rational thought, a readiness for collective action and peaceful alternatives. A new era of collective responsibility and concerted action is dawning in the Middle East. It should be encouraged by all means.
— Hassan Yassin is a Saudi businessman. He is based in Riyadh.
