SAUDI ARABIA - TURKEY: MENDING RELATIONS TO REVIVE POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC GAINS

   Wed, 22 June 2022

Recent diplomatic developments between Turkey and Saudi Arabia suggest a thawing of relations between the two states amidst a general easing of regional tensions across the Middle East. This broader shift carries substantial implications for Turkish-Saudi relations and regional geopolitics, including but not limited to economic and security engagement. The rapprochement between the two historic rivals could highlight growing competition between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, the Kingdom’s efforts to diversify its security relationships, and Turkey’s increasing need for economic assistance amidst a worsening currency crisis. While Turkey and Saudi Arabia are engaging in a pragmatic, interest-driven reconciliation, overall relations will probably remain poor and marked by strategic competitiveness, especially at a time of rising regional uncertainties and insecurities.