DAMMAM: The Kingdom has firmly established itself as a major power in the region, is a role model globally for its economy and stability, and is effectively countering the influence of Iran in neighboring countries, according to experts.

Saad bin Omar, chairman of the Al-Qarn Al-Arabi Research and Studies Center, said that the Kingdom has adopted a foreign policy based on respect for international law and United Nations conventions, which has garnered it much respect regionally and internationally.

Bin Omar said the Kingdom has never been involved in military and political adventures, or done anything else that could affect the welfare of Saudi citizens. It has been at the forefront of aid and humanitarian efforts globally without regard to race, sex or religion, he said.

Political strategist Ali Al-Touati said the Kingdom’s care of the two holy mosques was one of the main reasons for its prestige in the Muslim world.

This was largely due to the vision of the government under the leadership of Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman, he said.

Al-Touati said the Kingdom has not abandoned its national mission to defend countries in the Arab world, such as during the wars in 1948 and 1967, and other conflicts.

He said the Kingdom has formed advantageous strategic alliances with powerful nations, which has seen those supporting Iran reconsidering their position. Saudi Arabia’s more assertive role has ensured that Iran’s influence has been reduced in Yemen, Syria and the Gulf area.

He said regional security has been restored by the Kingdom after it reasserted itself politically, economically and militarily as one of the most powerful members of the G20 group of nations.