Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, often referred to as MBS, has experienced a significant turnaround in his global image, despite previous backlash due to his involvement in the Jamal Khashoggi killing. This transformation was highlighted during a lavish state banquet hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, where Trump announced the sale of advanced military aircraft to Saudi Arabia. Some analysts have described this as a “comeback tour” with potential implications for Canada.
Former Canadian ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Dennis Horak, emphasized the importance of Saudi Arabia as a key player on the global stage, suggesting that Canada cannot afford to overlook potential economic partnerships with the kingdom. The relationship between Canada and Saudi Arabia had soured in the past over human rights issues, leading to diplomatic tensions and severed ties. However, recent developments indicate a shift towards closer diplomatic and economic cooperation between the two nations.
While the Khashoggi incident stained MBS’s reputation internationally, Trump’s support and engagement with the crown prince have played a significant role in his rehabilitation. Trump’s efforts to strengthen ties with Saudi Arabia have been evident, with the kingdom becoming a focal point of his Middle East strategy. This strategic alignment is seen as an attempt to counter Chinese influence in the region and enhance cooperation in various sectors, including energy, manufacturing, and trade.
Canada, too, has shown a willingness to enhance its relationship with Saudi Arabia, with recent high-level meetings setting the stage for increased economic collaboration. The potential for Prime Minister Mark Carney to visit Saudi Arabia in the future underscores the growing importance of bilateral ties. Key areas for cooperation include energy, technology, and agriculture, with both countries poised to benefit from mutual investments and trade opportunities.
Under Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 initiative, the kingdom has embarked on a path of economic diversification and social reforms. Notable progress has been made in empowering women and expanding their participation in the workforce and business ownership. While social freedoms have improved, challenges remain in the realm of political rights and human rights advocacy.
Despite criticisms from human rights groups and political opposition in Canada, the trend towards engagement and economic cooperation with Saudi Arabia appears to be gaining momentum. MBS’s efforts to present Saudi Arabia as a modern and dynamic nation have resonated with investors and partners globally, as evidenced by increasing investments in sports and entertainment ventures. This shift signifies a broader rebranding effort to position Saudi Arabia as a more open and attractive destination for international partnerships.