Saudi Arabia embracing Pak-Iran de-escalation shows true spirit of Vision 2030

The Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs has warmly embraced the de-escalation of tensions between Pakistan and Iran, as well as the re-establishment of relations between the two nations. These actions are integral to the Kingdom's key initiatives aimed at safeguarding global security, safety, and peace.

The sentiment stems from Saudi Arabia’s aspiration for stability and peace in the region and beyond, through the concept of civilizational communication, recognizing its global standing as a supporter, contributor, and initiator of global dialogue and United Nations efforts. The Kingdom emphasizes the importance of addressing international peace and security issues through civilizational dialogue, as evidenced by its commitment in UNESCO agreements. This commitment is rooted in religious and humanitarian principles that advocate understanding, acceptance irrespective of differences, dialogue, compassion, and love.

Given its unique spiritual significance, particularly for Muslims undertaking Hajj and Umrah, the Kingdom has embraced the notion of cultural communication throughout its history. This commitment has become a key objective of Vision 2030, with a suite of programs and initiatives led by Prince Mohammed bin Salman, aimed at establishing Saudi Arabia as a global destination across all spheres.

This state was established during the era of King Abdulaziz, who played a pivotal role in initiating a civilizational and enlightenment boom within the Kingdom, driven by the pursuit of peace, stability, and civilizational dialogue among various peoples, tribes, and countries.

American writer Edward Peking said about King Abdulaziz: “If we seek the awakening of the Arab peoples, we must look to the personality of Ibn Saud. This man, who appeared on the Peninsula and began disseminating his message among the Arabs, has ignited movement and activity in their souls.”

The Kingdom emphasizes the importance of addressing international peace and security issues through civilizational dialogue, as evidenced by its commitment in UNESCO agreements.

Dr. Jamal Al-Harbi

These statements capture the essence of King Abdulaziz's role, commencing with the conquest of Riyadh in 1902 AD. Subsequently, he initiated a series of reforms and efforts aimed at overcoming the state of fragmentation and conflicts prevalent in the Arabian Peninsula at that time.

King Abdulaziz worked towards unifying the lands of what was formerly known as the Kingdom of Hijaz and Najd into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in 1932. His efforts were instrumental in transforming the region from a state of conflict into one marked by economic stability and prosperity.

One of his most notable achievements included the establishment of the country's administrative, political, and developmental infrastructure, transitioning it from a stage of conflict to a modern, unified state. This involved setting up ministries, councils, and banks, constructing roads. Additionally, he placed significant emphasis on education and knowledge.

The Kingdom has actively embraced numerous summits and initiatives for international peace to foster global harmony over the decades. Notable among these is the Arab Peace Initiative between Israel and Palestine in 2002, which concluded with two international summits, both integral to efforts aimed at finding solutions to cease the conflicts in Gaza. Additionally, the Kingdom hosted a peace summit addressing the war in Ukraine, preceded by the "Jeddah Summit on Security and Development" in 2022. This summit sought to establish a shared vision for the region, emphasizing peace and prosperity.

The initiatives of the King Salman bin Abdulaziz Center to extend a helping hand and assist those in need from countries around the world are considered one of the most significant examples of dedicated efforts to establish global stability.

All brotherly and friendly nations in the region have acknowledged Saudi Arabia’s leadership in preserving peace, promoting tolerance, and fostering reconciliation among humanity. Anyone who fails to recognize this truth is overlooking an established reality.

- Dr. Jamal Alharbi is a writer on international affairs and media advisor at the Saudi Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan.