Al-Okaz, Saudi Arabia, January 19
2011 was a watershed year in the Arab world. Arab youth across the region took the streets and demanded accountability from their leaders. They established communication platforms that enabled them to join hands and unite around specific causes. Fast forward to where we are today: there are no initiatives, no plans, and no leaders offering hope. Qatar has become the financial and political hub from which misinformation campaigns are launched against every single country in the Gulf. Tehran has expanded its involvement in the region and launched bloody wars designed to undermine the sovereignty of multiple nation states. The model introduced to the Arab world in 2011 proved to be a clear disaster, as it failed to bring about any real change or prevent radical regimes from imposing their agendas. Our region is desperate for a new kind of rhetoric and a new kind of political leadership that is unlikely to emerge from the monotony and fear we are immersed in; rather, it needs to be a project that will not only defend the idea of the nation-state but also rid our region of extremism. Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 is the answer to this call. It is a vision that focuses not on our past but on our future. It is a detailed plan that outlines actions that will set our region on the right path forward. It is not based on empty promises for a better future but on real reforms that are already taking place. At a recent investment forum in Riyadh, Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman spoke about his vision and the benefit it would bring to Arab youth around the region. He spoke of collaborations between Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Jordan, and other states. Anyone sitting in the audience could notice the passion in the Crown Prince’s eyes. The Middle East has historically lacked effective and influential role models, especially ones that preach moderation and modernization. Crown Prince bin Salman may very well be the first leader to challenge this reality. He is unwaveringly committed to promoting the prosperity of our people through investments in education, technology, culture and innovation. He represents a new mindset that is quickly spreading throughout the Middle East. Indeed, he is continuously pushing and expanding the horizons of our region. –Muhammad al-Sayed