This is with reference to the report “KSA, China get down to business” (Aug. 30). It is heartening to note that the Saudi leadership is taking strong measures to forge new strategic alliances with other key global players. The Arabian Peninsula and China relations date back to the ancient times and Riyadh and Beijing have always enjoyed cordial ties. The ongoing visit of Deputy Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is aimed at taking these ties to a new level. It is very important for the Kingdom to take these measures, as it is in the process of socioeconomic reforms so as to diversify its sources of income. China is undoubtedly a great economic power with a huge market and the potential to invest heavily in other emerging economies.
Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, is not only an emerging economic power hub; it also has a huge industrial and development potential. In today’s age of globalization, economic progress cannot be achieved in isolation. It is the era of global interdependence. That is what Saudi leaders are doing to increase their country’s economic outreach to the world and to attract foreign investments in the Kingdom.
One of the most prominent and commendable aspects of China’s foreign and business policy is non-interference in other country’s internal and political matters. This one quality of China makes it stand tall amid all its rival countries. This strategy helps boost confidence level between China and its trading partners. Perhaps, that is one of the major reasons behind China’s spectacular economic growth in a relatively short span.
Saudi Arabia and China should widen the scope of cooperation to every field of life, as it would prove to be mutually beneficial. The Kingdom’s evolving policy toward the countries in the East is very appropriate and timely. — Khalid Hafeez, Jeddah
KSA, China ties
