Latest news with #AbdulazizSager
Time of India
29-05-2025
- Politics
- Time of India
India's strong concerns about cross-border terrorism shared with Saudi Arabia's security experts
An all-party Indian delegation on Thursday visited the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences and think tank Gulf Research Centre here to share strong concerns about cross-border terrorism emanating from Pakistan. The delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Panda, is visiting Saudi Arabia from May 27 to 29 to convey India's firm stance against terrorism and its continued efforts to combat this global menace in all its forms and manifestations. At the Naif Arab University for Security Sciences, the Indian MPs "shared strong concerns with cross-border terrorism and the position of zero tolerance against terrorism," said a post on X by the Indian Embassy here. Panda shared a post on X that the Indian team had a "meaningful exchange with university President Dr Abdulmajeed bin Abdullah Al-Bunyan, discussing India's firm zero-tolerance approach to cross-border terrorism and shared opportunities in security education and research." A member of the delegation, Satnam Singh Sandhu, described the institution as a "brilliant platform to exchange the best practices to stop terrorism and benefit mutually" in a post on X. Live Events The delegation also had a "frank & productive exchange of views" with the Gulf Research Centre Chairman Dr Abdulaziz Sager. "The Indian delegation shared India's resolve & approach towards terrorism with zero tolerance policy & the new normal in light of #OpSindoor. "The discussions also focused on strong India-Saudi Arabia partnership across all domains, including security & defence cooperation," the Embassy said in another post on X. "India and Saudi Arabia continue to deepen ties across security, defence & global affairs, united by a shared resolve to combat terrorism. Our all-party delegation had a candid & insightful exchange at Gulf Research Centre with Chairman Dr Abdulaziz Sager," Panda said in another post on X. Earlier on Wednesday, the delegation members met Saudi Arabia's Minister of State for Foreign Affairs Adel Al-Jubeir; visited the Shura Council, a governmental body with regulatory authority, and met Deputy Speaker Mishaal Al-Sulami and Maj Gen Abdulrahman Alharbi, Chair of the India-Saudi Friendship Committee, and also met Mushabab Al-Qahtani, DG, Prince Saud Al Faisal Institute of Diplomatic Studies. The delegation members also offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi on Embassy premises, honouring his timeless message of peace, non-violence and tolerance. "In all the meetings, the Indian delegation underlined that India has received unwavering support from Saudi Arabia on issues related to counterterrorism . Both countries will continue to work together in their efforts towards de-radicalisation and curbing extremism," a statement from the Indian Embassy said on Wednesday. The Embassy hosted a dinner interaction with the participation of distinguished personalities from Saudi civil society, which gave an opportunity for further discussions countering terrorism as well as broader topics related to India-Saudi bilateral partnership, the statement added. Besides Panda and Sandhu, other members of the delegation are AIMIM leader Asaduddin Owaisi, BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, former chairperson of the National Commission for Women and Rajya Sabha MP Rekha Sharma, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak apart from former Ambassador Harsh Shringla. Former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, who was also a part of the delegation, was admitted to a hospital after the Bahrain leg of the multi-country visit. The delegation had visited Bahrain and Kuwait before arriving in Riyadh on Tuesday. The delegation is one of the seven multi-party delegations India has tasked to visit 33 global capitals to reach out to the international community to emphasize Pakistan's links to terrorism. Tensions between India and Pakistan escalated after the Pahalgam terror attack, with India carrying out precision strikes on terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in the early hours of May 7. Pakistan attempted to attack Indian military bases on May 8, 9, and 10. The Indian side responded strongly to the Pakistani actions. The on-ground hostilities ended with an understanding of stopping the military actions following talks between the directors general of military operations of both sides on May 10.
Yahoo
14-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Burlington Capital Announces Strategic Investment with G Capital in Major Development Project in Saudi Arabia, Made Possible Through the Leadership and Vision of Dr. Abdulaziz Sager
OMAHA, Neb., May 14, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- US-based investment firm Burlington Capital has joined the Al-Bushra Infrastructure Development Fund as a strategic partner, marking a new chapter in economic cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia. The fund, which is privately managed and closed-ended, aims to develop more than 734,000 square meters of land in the Al-Aziziyah district of Makkah, supporting urban growth and regional economic diversification. "Participating in this transformative project aligns perfectly with Burlington Capital's long-term strategy to expand our presence in high-potential international markets," said Lisa Y. Roskens, Chairman and CEO of Burlington Capital. "Strong leadership is one of the most critical factors we consider in any project, and we are thrilled to partner with Dr. Abdulaziz Sager, whose qualifications and vision exceed any standard we could set in this category. We are excited to be part of a development that supports regional growth and economic diversification while delivering value to our investors." 'Nebraska has long punched above its weight with companies like Burlington Capital who can do business on a global scale from right here in the middle of America,' said Nebraska Governor Jim Pillen. 'This tremendous investment is another great example of that, and it comes at a momentous time as President Trump himself arrives in Saudi Arabia to strengthen our ties with that nation. I congratulate the Burlington Capital team on their achievement. There is no place in the world better to do business than Nebraska, and no one better to do business with than Nebraska's people.' U.S. Congressman Don Bacon added, 'Burlington Capital is truly a global company, and we are all proud it is headquartered right here in Omaha.' 'Congratulations to Burlington Capital and Al Bushra Fund on this exciting joint venture,' said Cyrill Moity, Partner at G Capital. 'This collaboration marks a strong and promising partnership between the United States and Saudi Arabia, paving the way for exceptional opportunities across the region.' This investment was made possible by the vision and support of Dr. Abdulaziz Sager, President of Sager Group Holding and Chairman and Founder of the Gulf Research Center in Jeddah, and through a strategic partnership facilitated by Graham David Bell of Bridge Partners, whose insight and network were instrumental in identifying this high-potential opportunity in the Saudi market. It represents a significant milestone in Burlington Capital's global real estate expansion strategy. The Al-Bushra Infrastructure Development Fund is designed to convert raw land into serviced plots, creating essential infrastructure for residential and commercial development. The project aims to meet the region's growing demand for modern, high-quality living and working spaces, incorporating cutting-edge infrastructure and sustainable design investment underscores Burlington Capital's broader strategy of identifying emerging opportunities in high-growth markets while maintaining a disciplined approach to risk management and value creation. With a proven track record in real estate development and asset management, Burlington Capital remains committed to delivering long-term value to its investors and partners. 'We hope this serves as inspiration for others to invest alongside us, explore partnership opportunities, or engage more deeply in this work. We are always available to answer questions, provide additional information, or help facilitate the next steps toward meaningful collaboration,' said Dominic Vaccaro, President of Burlington Capital Real Estate. MEDIA CONTACT:Trish Owens Burlington Capital Phone: (402) 444-1630 Email: Towens@ in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
See - Sada Elbalad
23-04-2025
- Business
- See - Sada Elbalad
Central Asia, GCC: From Historical Ties to Strategic Partnership
Dr. Abdulaziz Sager - Dr. Eldor Aripov In recent years, relations between Central Asia (CA) and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) have shown a steady and positive dynamic. The economic potential of the CA and GCC countries, complemented by a deepening political dialogue, mutual interest in cultural and historical ties, and advantageous geostrategic positioning, is enhancing the strategic importance of this partnership format. A turning point in this process was the first historic Summit of the Heads of State of the GCC and Central Asian countries in Jeddah held on July 19, 2023, which laid the foundation for long-term strategic cooperation. The second summit of the said dialogue is scheduled for May 2025 in Samarkand. The choice of Samarkand as a venue for such an important summit is not coincidental. For centuries, this famous city, located at the intersection of the main roads of the Great Silk Road, has been an important center for the dialogue of civilizations, and diplomatic, trade, and cultural exchange between the East and the West. In this regard, holding the event in Samarkand is intended to give new impetus to historical ties. 1. Historical Ties and Their Transformation Many centuries of relations between Central Asia and the Arab Peninsula create a strong foundation for the revival of mutually beneficial cooperation. Since the 2nd century BC, the Great Silk Road ensured active trade: silk, paper, jewelry, and horses were supplied from Central Asia to Arabia, and incense, spices, and jewelry were carried back. This established the basis for our civilizational interconnectedness. With the spread of Islam in the 8th century, interaction reached a new level. A special place in this process was occupied by the famous House of Wisdom ("Bait-ul-Hikma") in Baghdad, where outstanding scholars of Central Asia and the Arab world together laid the foundations of global science. Samarkand, Bukhara, and Merv became not only trade centers but also intellectual centers in the Islamic world. Scholars of the region made a great contribution to theological and secular knowledge: al-Bukhari and at-Tirmidhi systematized the hadith, al-Khwarizmi developed algebra, and al-Farabi and Ibn Sina combined ancient philosophy with Islamic thought. The cities of Mecca and Medina played a special role in the development of Islamic science, becoming key centers for the study of hadith, where scholars such as Ibn Abbas and Malik ibn Anas developed a methodology for collecting and verifying hadith, which became the foundation for all Islamic jurisprudence. This network of intellectual centers, stretching from the Arabian Peninsula to Central Asia, enabled a process of regular circulation of knowledge, forming a unified scientific space in the Islamic world. However, beginning in the 16th century, traditional connections began to weaken due to a number of geopolitical and geoeconomic changes. The discovery of maritime trade routes during the Age of Exploration altered global trade patterns, rendering overland routes less significant. In the 20th century, the impact of international processes on the regions and the emergence of ideological barriers further distanced them from one another. The year 1991 marked a new starting point in developing international relations in Central Asia, as the independence of the region's states created conditions for the revival of centuries-old partnerships,. This stage is characterized by the GCC's political and diplomatic solidarity with Central Asia and limited but meaningful economic interactions. The Gulf states were among the first to officially recognize the sovereignty of the new republics of Central Asia. At the same time, the opening of embassies in Central Asian capitals was not only a formal action but also served as a special political signal of the GCC's readiness to support the Central Asian countries in their peaceful development. 2. Current dynamics of interregional relations Since 2020, a qualitatively new stage of interaction between Central Asia and the Gulf countries has been taking place. A significant trend of this period was the development of institutional forms of cooperation. This is confirmed by the first summit of heads of state and two ministerial meetings held in 2022, 2023, and 2024. As a result of these meetings, a Joint Action Plan for 2023–2027 was adopted, which today serves as the first conceptual document defining the long-term directions of mutually beneficial partnership. This has led to tangible progress in the dynamics of multilateral relations, evidenced by a notable increase in trade, tourism, and investment exchanges. The total volume of investments from GCC countries into Central Asia has grown steadily in recent years, increasing nearly threefold since 2022. Financial cooperation is also developing within the framework of Islamic financing mechanisms. The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) has invested $9.1 billion in CIS countries, with 60% of these funds directed to Central Asia. Central Asia is turning into an attractive destination for tourists from the GCC region. For example, in 2023, more than 8,300 tourists from the GCC visited Uzbekistan; in 2024, this number rose to 12,000 (a 44.5% increase compared to 2023). The most significant increases came from Saudi Arabia (71%) and the UAE (51%). All this became possible due to fundamental changes in interstate relations in Central Asia. This is confirmed by the launch of the mechanism of Consultative Meetings between the heads of state of Central Asia and the rapid finding of mutually acceptable solutions to all contentious issues. As a result, in a fairly short period of time, Central Asia has transformed from a potential hotbed of conflicts into a zone of stability, good-neighborliness, and prosperity. This has a positive effect on the region's overall economic indicators. Over the past 7 years, the total GDP of the Central Asian countries has grown by 6.3%, intraregional trade has increased by 4.4 times, and the volume of mutual investments has nearly doubled. Another significant trend is the growing political subjectivity of Central Asia. This is evidenced by the creation of the dialogue formats 'CA Plus,' which allows for the combination of various interests of external partners, directing them in a constructive way in the interests of the sustainable development of Central Asia. Today, more than 10 such dialogue platforms are developing fruitfully, six of which were created in the last five years, including CA-GCC. Summarizing the above factors, it can be stated that recent years have passed under the sign of restoring historical ties between the two regions, building conceptual and institutional forms of multilateral cooperation, and identifying key areas of mutually beneficial partnership. 3. Strategic Goals of Partnership Central Asia and the GCC countries have similar goals in political, economic, and social development and common approaches to international and regional issues. The countries of the two regions continue their policy of mutual support within the framework of such influential international structures as the United Nations, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and the Non-Aligned Movement. Both regions strive to diversify their economies, reduce dependence on raw materials, and create sustainable growth models. For the Central Asian countries, this means the development of industry, agriculture, and transport infrastructure, while for the Gulf states it means the promotion of innovative technologies, a "green" economy, and tourism. The strategic development programs of countries in both regions align in terms of goals and objectives: Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, Oman's Vision 2040, Bahrain's Economic Vision 2030, We the UAE 2031, Qatar's National Vision 2030, Kuwait's Vision 2035, and the national development strategies of Kyrgyzstan through 2040, Kazakhstan through 2050, and Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan through 2030 all open up wide opportunities for mutually beneficial partnerships. In other words, the countries of the two regions are united by common goals of ensuring a qualitative transformation of their economies – from a resource-based development model to an innovation-driven model, which emphasizes high production concentration, scientific and technological knowledge, and new technologies. Both the GCC and Central Asia are experiencing positive economic growth dynamics. On average, the economy of Central Asia grew by 4.7% annually from 2022 to 2024. According to the Eurasian Development Bank, the nominal GDP of Central Asia in 2024 reached around $520 billion. A similar situation is observed in the economies of the Gulf Arab states. In particular, in 2023, the collective GDP growth of GCC countries was estimated at 1.5%, following a record 7.9% growth in 2022. In 2024, regional GDP growth reached approximately 2%. Another unifying factor is the complementarity of the two regions' economies. The Gulf occupies a key position in the architecture of global energy security. The GCC is also a major international investment hub, serving as a financial pillar for developing economies. Central Asia holds around 20% of the world's uranium reserves, 7% of oil and natural gas, significant deposits of rare earth metals, and strong hydropower and solar energy potential. At the same time, Central Asia is rich in a growing pool of labor resources. Both the GCC and Central Asia enjoy strategically important geographic positions. While the Gulf is located at the crossroads of major maritime trade routes between Europe, Asia, and Africa, Central Asia sits at a strategic junction of key overland transport corridors. In other words, from a geostrategic perspective, both regions are positioned to serve as connectors in global production and supply chains. All the factors above make the countries of the two regions natural partners, creating favorable conditions for intensifying trade and investment cooperation and implementing large-scale joint projects in various sectors. Recognizing this, Central Asia and the GCC have already begun establishing long-term cooperation in several mutually beneficial areas. 4. New Horizons of Partnership While the level of cooperation that has been achieved in the last 7-8 years is notable, the possibility for additional advancements exists. In this regard, future joint efforts can be focused on the following strategic areas, which can together, produce a multiplier effect. First, it is necessary to intensify trade exchanges. In 2024, the volume of trade turnover between the countries of Central Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council states amounted to about $4 billion. This is less than 1% of the GCC trade with the outside world, and less than 2% of the trade turnover of Central Asian states with foreign partners. This situation actualizes the need to develop and adopt a multilateral trade agreement initiated by the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan during the first Central Asia - Gulf Cooperation Council summit. Second, building an effective model of interregional connectedness is impossible without linking the countries of the two regions through a reliable and extensive transportation network. The underdevelopment of transport and logistics infrastructure remains a major barrier to the intensification of trade and economic exchanges. In this regard, Uzbekistan advocates for the development of interregional transport projects. Among them, the Trans-Afghan Corridor project – proposed by the President of Uzbekistan at the very first Central Asia-GCC Summit – holds key significance. According to experts, its successful implementation would enable the diversification of trade routes and reduce logistics costs. Thus, Central Asia could become a 'gateway' for the entry of Gulf goods and services into the vast Eurasian market. This would give a powerful impetus to developing the emerging non-oil sector of the Arab states. At the same time, the Central Asian states would gain the shortest access to the world market through the GCC seaports. Third, investment cooperation is mutually beneficial. Central Asia is a capacious market with growing investment attractiveness. The region offers resources, transit corridors, and demographic potential, which are becoming a natural focus for investment funds from around the world. The Central Asian states are distinguished from other markets by their internal political stability and neutrality in foreign policy, which makes them a safe haven for long-term investments. All of the above factors, combined with the opportunities for the Gulf states to diversify their investment portfolio, make the Central Asian region a potentially natural place for Arab investments to concentrate. Such a perspective requires systematization of the current level of investment cooperation. The countries of the two regions could create specific financial cooperation mechanisms that will facilitate major projects in infrastructure, energy, and high technology. Fourth, the development of cooperation in the field of agriculture is a promising area. The Central Asian countries could be key in ensuring food security in the GCC region. This direction is of vital importance for the Arab States of the Gulf. In particular, the GCC imports 85% of food products. It is expected that by 2028, the needs of the GCC food market will reach 59.6 million tons annually. In this regard, the GCC and Central Asian countries could establish joint agricultural clusters, with the final products intended for export to the Gulf region. Fifth, Central Asia and the GCC could also strengthen cooperation in the promotion of digital technologies by creating specialist exchange programs and joint projects in e-government, cybersecurity, and fintech. A further step could be the joint development of telecommunications infrastructure in Central Asia, including the construction of 5G networks and data centers. This would provide additional incentives for companies and investment funds from the Gulf states to carve out a niche in the technology sector of Central Asian countries. Another important area is strengthening scientific and intellectual interaction. Research institutes and analytical centers of the two regions should play a special role in determining priority areas for the development of relations. In this regard, the first Forum of Think Tanks from Central Asia and the GCC countries will be held in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, on Apil 28 and 29, 2025 under the overarching theme: 'Strengthening Strategic Partnership between Central Asia and the GCC: From Historical Ties to Comprehensive Cooperation.' Leading think tanks from both regions are attending this event. The organizers of the first interregional forum are the Institute for Strategic and Interregional Studies under the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan and the Saudi based 'Gulf Research Center.' The idea is for such a forum to become a regular expert interaction. The platform created can become one of many tools that promote more effective interaction between Central Asia and the Gulf countries, complementing the official cooperation mechanisms. In general, cooperation between Central Asia and the Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf opens real strategic prospects. The unifying principle is not only the cultural and historical proximity, but also the complementary nature of the economies. Together, these two regions can build a mutually beneficial partnership model, where sustainable development, food and energy security, and digital transformation will become the basis of a new format of multilateral interaction. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! 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Yemen Online
13-04-2025
- Politics
- Yemen Online
Yemeni gov't reportedly preparing 80,000 man assault on Houthi-controlled Hodeidah port
"We might be at the stage of counting down the end of the Houthis," a leading expert said as the Yemeni government prepares a massive 80,000 soldier assault on Hodeidah. Yemen's government is reportedly preparing to launch a massive assault to recapture Hodeidah Port in western Yemen from the Houthis, according to a Friday report in Emirati state media. Yemen's internationally recognized government is preparing to mass nearly 80,000 troops for what would be the largest offensive of the civil war, according to statements by Dr. Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of the Gulf Research Center based in Saudi Arabia, on Friday.
Arab News
23-02-2025
- Politics
- Arab News
Frankly Speaking: How did Saudis become mediators for global conflicts?
RIYADH: Saudi Arabia has emerged as a pivotal diplomatic hub, a fact underscored by the recent high-level talks between the US and Russia held in Riyadh designed to re-establish fractured relations between Washington and Moscow and plot a course to ending the war in Ukraine. Saudi Arabia brokered the talks on Feb. 18, signaling its emerging influence on the world stage. It comes amid a growing recognition of the Kingdom's potential role as a mediator, positioning it as a crucial bridge between East and West. Further talks are expected on Feb. 25. Appearing on the Arab News current affairs program 'Frankly Speaking,' Dr. Abdulaziz Sager, founder and chairman of the Gulf Research Center, highlighted the significance of the US-Russia talks in Riyadh, noting that Saudi Arabia's neutral stance had positioned it as an ideal convener. 'Saudi Arabia has taken an important position that has led to this meeting, which means Saudi Arabia originally refused to take a side — neither with the Russians nor with the Ukrainians,' Sager said. Global media outlets have highlighted Saudi Arabia's unique positioning, noting that it has maintained positive ties with both Russia and the West throughout the Ukraine conflict, which began on Feb. 24, 2022, when Russia launched what it called a 'special military operation.' CNN said Saudi Arabia's hosting of the high-stakes rapprochement meeting between US and Russian officials 'underlines the Kingdom's aspirations to become a global actor capable of successfully mediating international conflicts.' The US broadcaster also speculated that 'another likely aim' could be pursuing 'added leverage for Riyadh in future talks on the fate of postwar Gaza.' Radio Free Europe likewise suggested the discussions represented an opportunity for Saudi Arabia 'to assert its political clout after it rejected US President Donald Trump's plan to relocate Gaza's residents while resisting any normalization of relations with Israel.' The fact that Riyadh 'originally refused to take a side' is not to say it has condoned Russia's behavior, nor failed to play a role in addressing the humanitarian consequences of the war, Sager said. He noted that Saudi Arabia has consistently voted against the Russian invasion of Ukraine at the UN, contributed aid and participated in prisoner exchanges. 'In fact, they took a position that they vote in the UN for the decision against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. With the GCC countries, they have taken, also, a very firm and clear position on that subject also,' Sager said. 'They have contributed to the humanitarian issue in Ukraine. They have participated in the release of some of the prisoners also — Ukrainian prisoners from the Russian side. 'And also, they have insisted, and this was stated during the visit of the (Saudi) foreign minister to Ukraine, confirming the position of Saudi Arabia on the unity of Ukraine.' Sager added: 'Yet, Saudi Arabia never wanted to be fully on the side of either, or what the American and the European countries … (said, which was): 'Either you are with us or against us.' 'So, they have maintained relations with Russia. They never wanted to cut relations diplomatically with Russia, because Russia has been a very important and useful partner in OPEC+.' This balanced approach, according to Sager, has allowed the Kingdom to maintain open lines of communication with both sides, creating an environment for dialogue. The Feb. 18 talks in Riyadh were attended by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff, and on the Russian side by Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov, and head of Moscow's Direct Investment Fund Kirill Dmitriev. 'It was a very important meeting that took place in Riyadh, attended by both the US secretary of state and the national security adviser. It brought the American and Russians together after many years when they did not get together, and also to discuss the current situation,' Sager told 'Frankly Speaking' host Katie Jensen. 'And the result of that, of course, is to create a different committee between both sides to go in depth and in detailed discussion of the whole issue.' While Ukraine was not directly involved in the Riyadh talks, Sager noted that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was aware of the discussions. He also pointed to subsequent meetings in Paris involving European foreign ministers, where Ukraine was likely informed of the outcomes. However, the absence of Ukraine from the initial talks has raised questions about inclusivity and just how sustainable a resulting peace deal might be. Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out accepting a peace deal negotiated without Ukraine. Last Monday, European leaders held a hastily arranged summit in Paris — a day before the US-Russia talks in Riyadh — amid fears that Ukraine and Europe could be excluded from peace negotiations, raising concerns about the continent's long-term security. However, Sager clarified the Riyadh discussions extended beyond Ukraine, encompassing broader issues related to the US-Russia relationship. These included the status of frozen Russian assets and sanctions, with some reports suggesting the easing of restrictions on credit card usage for Russians. Such measures could be seen as confidence-building steps aimed at fostering a more constructive dialogue. Indeed, the Kingdom may soon play host to a face-to-face meeting between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Looking ahead to future talks, Sager said: 'Definitely, Ukraine will participate, and I think it was clearly stated by the US side (that) there will be participation from the Ukrainian side and the Europeans.' Turning to the situation in Gaza, Sager reiterated Saudi Arabia's unwavering commitment to the two-state solution to the Middle East conflict. He sharply criticized US proposals that involve the deportation of Gazan people and the conversion of the Palestinian territory into a real estate project. 'The Saudi position never changed,' he said. 'The Saudi position is still insisting on the two-state solution. If you have another solution, tell us.' He dismissed alternative solutions as unacceptable, saying that such proposals are rejected by Arab countries. This regional consensus, he said, underscores the importance of a unified approach to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He also speculated that the US proposals could be aimed at achieving collective recognition and normalization with Israel, which he believes is unlikely to succeed. 'I don't think that will happen because Saudi Arabia is leading the team, and if you remember, we had the Arab-Islamic Summit in Riyadh here, and that summit did confirm with the 57 countries attending that a two-state solution is the way forward that we will be accepting.' Sager highlighted the widespread international support for a Palestinian state, with 149 UN member countries already recognizing it. 'The solution that President Trump presented is unacceptable,' he said. 'The deportation of the people of Gaza and converting it to a real estate project — and then, there is no guarantee that they will (go) back. I don't think this is acceptable. 'And by the way, not only Saudi Arabia but also all GCC countries along with Egypt and Jordan reject such a thing. I think he wanted to divert attention from the two-state solution, that he will put the countries in the region here in a defensive position to defend themselves from not really getting to the two-state solution that they've always believed in.' Sager highlighted the importance of a unified Palestinian position, urging Hamas and other factions to participate in a unified Palestinian Authority. This call for unity reflects the belief that a cohesive Palestinian voice is essential for achieving a lasting peace. 'Definitely the Arab countries and the Arab League will ask for a unified Palestinian position, a unified Palestinian Authority,' he said. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the designation of Hamas as a terrorist organization by some countries but suggested that individuals close to Hamas could be represented in the Palestinian Authority. This nuanced approach recognizes the need to engage with all relevant stakeholders, even those with differing ideologies. Sager also addressed the issue of ceasefires and hostage exchanges in Gaza, noting that they were taking place despite President Trump's recent rhetoric. While acknowledging Trump's tendency to escalate demands, he suggested that these threats often serve as a basis for compromise. Regarding international legal cases against Israeli leaders, Sager affirmed the importance of pursuing justice and upholding international law. He praised South Africa's efforts in bringing a genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice and emphasized the need to hold perpetrators of war crimes accountable. 'I think it's worth pursuing because in the end, we need to respect international law and we need to respect the international court. And such an effort (that) has been put by South Africa (is) highly appreciated,' said Sager. 'And remember, the G7 meeting in 2025 will take place in South Africa. So, that effort has been appreciated, and I think that matter should continue because we should not give a chance for the genocide and those (who) commit such a crime to get away with it without getting to the court and getting to the legal side.' Looking ahead, Sager expressed cautious optimism about the Middle East, citing successful ceasefires and hostage exchanges in Gaza as positive developments. However, he acknowledged the ongoing challenges and the need for sustained diplomatic efforts to achieve lasting peace and stability in the region, particularly in Syria, Lebanon, and Iran. 'There are many cases still open,' he said. 'We have almost seven countries in an almost failed state. The situation in the Arab world, we have Yemen, Sudan, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Libya, and Gaza, of course, the Palestinian side, all of those, there is a huge demand for reconstruction, which can cost trillions.' Given the uneven recovery in different parts of the Middle East and North Africa, is Sager more or less optimistic about the region's future than he was last year? 'I'm always optimistic,' he said. 'But also with optimism, with cautious optimism, I see that there is a lot of hard work (that) needs to be done to overcome a lot of those issues.'
