Extraordinary progress has been made since the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman, and his Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, introduced Vision 2030 and set the Kingdom on a trajectory toward reform and innovation eight years ago. I will not go over the list of everything that has been already achieved, suffice to say that we have never seen progress at this pace in Saudi Arabia and perhaps the world.
Yet, I’ve noticed the discontent in Western media. Some commentators criticize the Kingdom’s approach and its bold, innovative mega-projects, raising doubts about our ability to achieve our ambitions. Most of the criticism amounts to little more than cheap shots and baseless unpersuasive claims. When they’re not questioning NEOM’s capacity to present a new model for sustainability, they are casting doubt, despite growing evidence that runs counter to their claims, on our ability to turn a land that had once been known for its sand and camels into a land of opportunity and hope.
Yet, Saudi Arabia’s efforts go far beyond its domestic metamorphosis. We have taken meaningful steps to promote peace and facilitate compromise among conflicting parties in our region and beyond. Our nation has exceeded expectations, taking bold positions with regard to ending conflicts in Yemen, Palestine, Iran, and Sudan. It has even played a leading role in efforts to end the war in Ukraine.
We are a nation that is willing to take risks, adapt, and correct course when needed. The world often reads our fortunes from the fluctuation of oil prices, but our determination is the compass of the Saudi citizens. We are focused on our ability to consolidate stability- not only in global markets and economies but in international relations as well. Saudi Arabia is not vying to do well in a global popularity contest; it is relentlessly pursuing every possible avenue to improve the lives of its citizens, those of its Arab neighbors, and everyone in the world. Those sowing doubt and leaving a bitter taste in our mouths should know this: we are planting our seeds with care, patience, and adaptability. We will only savor the sweetness of our fruits after they ripen.
Detractors have recently zeroed in on NEOM and The Line, claiming that these projects will harm the environment. However, this project essentially seeks to pioneer a new model of sustainability: a carbon-neutral city designed to become home to millions, foster innovation, and prove that we can live and thrive in harmony with the environment. Whatever it takes, Saudi Arabia will remain committed to realizing these goals. As for the flimsy and baseless criticisms, they will blow in the wind and be washed away by the rain. The Kingdom has already demonstrated its resolve to lead and to innovate. It has become a global frontier in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, urban development, fintech, and cybersecurity. Our nation is opening new doors, not closing windows or hiding behind excuses.
Instead of criticizing these genuine positive efforts, the West should take a hard look at its own record. It remains the worst culprit of environmental destruction, pollution, and climate change to this day. The scale of waste in Western societies (of water and electricity, or through rampant overconsumption) is staggering. As Alexander Clapp shows in his book “Waste Wars,” their pollution is often concealed behind the convenient fiction of recycling. In reality, their toxic waste is exported to the world’s poorest countries. The media ought to investigate and confront this phenomenon instead of attacking Saudi Arabia’s sincere efforts to offer new models of sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Let them talk. Saudi Arabia is an optimistic nation driven by dynamism and ambition. Our visionary leaders have opened up new and unexpected horizons for national development and opportunity. We also understand that the road ahead will not always be straight or smooth and that progress demands adaptability and a willingness to make adjustments to address unforeseen obstacles. Our goal is simple: imagining and pursuing deliberate change, opening new doors, and sparking hope in progress for our people, our region, and the world. We welcome everyone who shares this spirit of innovation and audacity; we need one another.
Amid fears of nuclear threats, conflicts fueled by artificial intelligence, rising tensions, anger, and division, Saudi Arabia believes that it is time to focus on progress, fresh thinking, and cooperation. We believe that we can help reverse the negative trajectory of global politics. We want to see humanity fulfill the divine promise not destroy the planet.
The challenge, today, is to seek and apply new solutions. We must present a bold and constructive path forward for humanity while protecting our planet and the environment. The only way to achieve this is through action, and that is exactly what Saudi Arabia is doing.
