Rakan Awad Al-Rashidi is a Saudi legal advisor with expertise in international law and public diplomacy. He holds a Master’s degree in International Law and a PhD, and has represented Saudi Arabia in global youth and volunteer forums. Rakan is also a regional expert for the Middle East in the “We Are Together” international volunteer award, and is known for his active contributions to social initiatives and legal reform. His work bridges diplomacy, civic engagement, and strategic policy advising in the Kingdom and beyond.
I was fortunate to meet Rakan at the Oremburg Forum during the World Youth Festival in Russia last September, and it is an honor to interview him and learn more about his great country, which is conducting a very interesting diplomatic engineering. For all of this I make him this interview to Otralectura.com
1. How do you assess Saudi Arabia’s position in the current reconfiguration of the Middle East geopolitical landscape, especially regarding its alliance with the United States and other regional partners?
Saudi Arabia today is positioning itself as a stabilizing force in a rapidly changing Middle East. Our longstanding alliance with the United States remains a cornerstone of our foreign policy, but we are also deepening partnerships within the region—particularly in the Gulf—and beyond. The Kingdom is no longer a passive actor; it is actively shaping outcomes, whether in energy markets, conflict resolution, or regional economic integration. This multifaceted diplomacy allows us to pursue our strategic interests while contributing to collective security and prosperity in the region.
2. Saudi Arabia is making a significant step forward in regional diplomacy. What specific benefits has Saudi Arabia gained from its participation and leadership in these types of international gatherings, including its role in the Riyadh Summit of 2023 or the Saudi talks with Russia and Ukraine?
Saudi Arabia’s proactive diplomacy is yielding tangible results. The Riyadh Summit of 2023, for example, reinforced our leadership role in regional and global affairs. It allowed us to showcase our commitment to dialogue and conflict resolution, particularly in complex crises like Ukraine. Our facilitation of talks between Russia and Ukraine demonstrated that the Kingdom can serve as a trusted intermediary—one that prioritizes stability and humanitarian outcomes over political gain. These engagements also enhance our global credibility and support our transformation goals under Vision 2030, especially in areas like economic diversification, tourism, and soft power influence.
3. What do you consider to be Saudi Arabia’s role in mediating and facilitating the normalization of relations between the United States and Syria, and what impact do you expect this to have on regional stability?
Saudi Arabia has played a pivotal role in reshaping the regional approach to Syria. Recognizing the importance of reintegrating Syria into the Arab world, the Kingdom has actively engaged in diplomatic efforts to facilitate this process. A notable example is the recent lifting of U.S. sanctions on Syria, announced by President Trump during his visit to Riyadh on May 13, 2025. This decision came at the behest of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s influence and commitment to regional stability.
By advocating for Syria’s reintegration and supporting initiatives that promote dialogue and reconstruction, Saudi Arabia aims to reduce external influences in the region and foster an environment conducive to peace and economic development. The Kingdom’s efforts are instrumental in transitioning Syria from a prolonged conflict towards a path of stability and prosperity, benefiting not only Syria but the broader Middle East.
4. The recent signing of a $142 billion arms deal with the United States is historic. How do you think this collaboration will strengthen the defense and security of the Kingdom amid existing threats, such as Iran and other regional actors?
The arms deal reflects the deep-rooted strategic partnership between Saudi Arabia and the United States. This collaboration is not just about acquiring weapons, but about enhancing interoperability, intelligence sharing, and long-term security planning. Given the volatility in the region and the persistent threats—whether from Iran or destabilizing non-state actors—strengthening our defense capabilities is a sovereign necessity. This deal sends a clear message of deterrence and readiness. It also empowers Saudi Arabia to take a more assertive role in maintaining regional stability and protecting both national and allied interests.
5. The situation in Yemen remains one of the greatest crises in the region. What role does Saudi Arabia play in resolving the conflict with the Houthi rebels, especially regarding the Ansarullah agreement with the U.S., following the bombings and the commitment not to attack further American ships?
Saudi Arabia has consistently advocated for a political solution to the conflict in Yemen. Our engagement has always aimed to restore legitimacy and alleviate the humanitarian crisis. While military action was necessary to counter the armed coup by the Houthis, we have also supported peace initiatives, including UN-led efforts and direct talks. Regarding the Ansarullah agreement with the U.S., we welcome any move that reduces escalation and protects vital shipping lanes. However, we remain cautious, as the Houthis have repeatedly violated previous commitments. Saudi Arabia’s role is to continue promoting peace through diplomacy while ensuring that security threats—especially those affecting international navigation and civilian populations—are addressed firmly.
6. Some analysts see Saudi cooperation with Russia, China, and other countries as a strategy to diversify alliances and reduce risks. What is Saudi Arabia’s vision regarding balancing its relations with the main global and regional powers?
Saudi Arabia’s foreign policy today is shaped by pragmatism and a focus on national interest. While we maintain strong and historic ties with the United States and Western allies, it is also important to engage with other influential global actors like China, Russia, and regional powers. This is not about replacing one alliance with another—it’s about strategic diversification. In a multipolar world, flexibility and balanced diplomacy are essential. Our vision, aligned with Vision 2030, is to build a resilient economy and a secure region by fostering mutually beneficial partnerships across ideological and geographic lines.
7. The $600 billion investment in the U.S. is a clear sign of mutual trust between the two economies. Which specific projects or sectors do you expect to benefit the most from this investment, and how will it impact Saudi economic development?
This level of investment reflects a deep strategic alignment between Saudi Arabia and the United States, especially in sectors crucial for the future. I expect the main beneficiaries to be renewable energy, advanced technologies such as AI and biotechnology, and infrastructure. By investing in cutting-edge American industries, Saudi Arabia not only gains access to innovation but also builds bridges for knowledge transfer and joint ventures that support Vision 2030 goals. These investments will accelerate the diversification of our economy, enhance our private sector, and create high-skilled job opportunities for Saudi youth.
8. Finally, do you believe Saudi Arabia intends to lead an Arab-Sunni bloc against Turkey, which leads a Turkic bloc with the Muslim Brotherhood, and against Iran, which heads an Iran-Shia bloc? What would be your vision regarding these balances and the possible consolidation of regional leadership in the future?
Saudi Arabia does not seek to lead through confrontation or bloc-building in sectarian or ethnic terms. Instead, our vision is rooted in cooperation, stability, and shared prosperity. The Kingdom has worked to de-escalate tensions with both Turkey and Iran in recent years, engaging in high-level dialogue and restoring diplomatic ties. Leadership today is about economic integration, regional development, and solving common challenges such as energy transition, food security, and climate resilience. Saudi Arabia’s approach is inclusive and pragmatic—we aim to lead by example, not by rivalry. That said, we will always stand firm in protecting our national interests and the stability of the Arab and Islamic worlds.
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