The changes in the Cabinet ordered by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman came to many as a surprise and many are still waiting for more changes.
In the wake of the death of King Abdullah, the foreign media was flooded with speculations and analysis of the situation in the Kingdom with a particular reference to the question of succession.
Interestingly, the smooth transfer of power effectively put to rest all those speculations. Soon after ascending to the throne, King Salman reshuffled the Cabinet and took sweeping actions on various fronts.
The problem with many analysts is that they have been accustomed to a conservative traditional Saudi political approach. So, such a huge break from the past was beyond their imaginations.
The aim of all these changes is to effectively counter the rapidly changing political and economic situation of the region and the world.
These challenges require new leaders and actors who are efficient and experienced in regional and world politics. Many writers and politicians had been talking about the stagnant water in the Kingdom; so, when King Salman came to power he threw a big stone in this water causing big waves. His decisions shocked those who had become used to witnessing slow progress. These changes herald the beginning of a new era at home and abroad. King Salman’s priorities are crystal clear, on top of them is to serve the people and preserve security and stability of the country.
Some observers say that there are a lot of surprises in the quiver of the new administration, but these surprises will be well-calculated in dealing with people and countries, in a way that safeguard the security and interests of the Kingdom.
In the past few days, the American media was busy in talking about why the Saudi officials didn’t shake hands with Michelle Obama, the wife of US President Barack Obama, and why she did not cover her head out of respect for the traditions of the Kingdom.
The media has in fact missed the point behind President Obama’s visit to the Kingdom in the first place. He cut short his visit to India and came to Saudi Arabia accompanied by a large delegation, not only to pay his respects, but also to hear from the new administration and to receive assurance about the existing alliance between the two countries.
