100 years of Saudi-Russian relations: A renewed strategic partnership
Celebrating a century of diplomatic relations
In a diplomatic gesture reflecting the deep historical ties between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Russian Federation, His Highness Prince Faisal bin Farhan bin Abdullah, Minister of Foreign Affairs, received a written message from his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov. This message, delivered as part of the celebrations marking 100 years of diplomatic relations between the two friendly nations, included mutual congratulations on this significant occasion, which lays the foundation for a new era of fruitful cooperation.
The message was delivered on behalf of His Royal Highness the Minister of Foreign Affairs by His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Engineer Waleed bin Abdulkarim Al-Khuraiji, during his meeting today at the Ministry's headquarters in Riyadh with the Ambassador of the Russian Federation to the Kingdom, Sergey Kozlov. During the meeting, congratulations were exchanged and the importance of this anniversary was emphasized. Several topics of mutual interest that serve the interests of both countries and enhance security and stability at the regional and international levels were also discussed.
Deeply rooted history
Saudi-Russian relations date back to 1926, when the Soviet Union was among the first countries to recognize the Kingdom during its founding by King Abdulaziz Al Saud, may God have mercy on him. This early recognition laid the foundation for a relationship that has gone through various phases, but has maintained a core of mutual respect. After a period of strain during the Cold War, relations experienced a resurgence with their full resumption in 1990, developing rapidly and transforming into a strategic partnership in many vital areas.
Strategic importance and global impact
Saudi-Russian relations are of paramount importance both regionally and internationally. Economically, the two countries are pivotal players in the global energy market, leading the OPEC+ alliance, which plays a crucial role in stabilizing oil markets, positively impacting the global economy. This close coordination in the energy sector forms the cornerstone of the partnership between Riyadh and Moscow.
Politically, the two countries share similar visions on many regional issues and strive to promote peaceful solutions to conflicts and support stability in the Middle East. Their membership in the G20 and other international platforms, such as BRICS, which the Kingdom recently joined, opens broader avenues for coordination on major international issues, thus strengthening their role as influential players in shaping a multipolar world order. The centenary of these relations is not merely a historical milestone, but a reaffirmation of a shared commitment to moving forward toward a future of strategic cooperation that serves the interests of both nations and contributes to global peace and prosperity.
