Category: Saudi Arabia

Can U.S. exploit Middle East green energy potential? [CNN.com]

August 17, 2012
Posted by: Rob Sobhani
In: Energy, Green Economy, Middle East, Saudi Arabia

King Hamad bin Isa al-Khalifa of Bahrain is one of America’s key allies in the Persian Gulf. He’s also among a growing number of political leaders in the Middle East who see more than oil in the region’s future. After all, the Middle East is blessed with an abundance of another natural resource: sunshine.

Bahrain wants to take full advantage of this reality, and harnessing solar energy has become a top priority in the country. But the government has also taken the surprising step of seeking long-term partnerships with leading American solar energy companies.

Continue reading “Can U.S. exploit Middle East green energy potential? [CNN.com]” »

The Standard-Bearers of King Abdullah

July 24, 2011
Posted by: Rob Sobhani
In: Geo-Politics, International Policy, Middle East, Saudi Arabia

The recent appointment of 48-year old Prince Abdulaziz to Deputy Foreign Minister by King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia is a clear signal to the world that the reformist monarch of the world’s largest oil exporter plans to have his sons continue his legacy once he leaves the scene. Last year King Abdullah appointed his eldest son Prince Miteb to head the Saudi Arabia National Guard (SANG) — one of the main pillars of Saudi Arabia’s institutions. It is indeed in America’s national security interest to work closely with the sons of King Abdullah since they are more likely to continue their father’s reformist agenda. Prince Miteb is a graduate of Sandhurst and Prince Abdulaziz is well versed in the details of U.S.-Saudi relations. Both men will continue to support the institutions their father has put in place to ensure the gradual transition of the Kingdom into a more inclusive and open society. Continue reading “The Standard-Bearers of King Abdullah” »

What the Kings of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain Are Thinking

April 19, 2011
Posted by: Rob Sobhani
In: International Policy, Middle East, Saudi Arabia

Dr. Rob Sobhani was interviewed on CNN World’s Global Public Square on the issue “What the Kings of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain are thinking.” He discussed stability, growth, leadership, and more, with a focus on new opportunities for cooperation and reform:

Amar C. Bakshi: You’ve been in the region and you’ve talked to leaders in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia. Let’s start with Saudi Arabia. What are the Saudi’s main concerns?

Rob Sobhani: The foreign policy of Saudi Arabia first revolves around stability. Next, they desire economic growth because Saudi Arabia’s population is young.  Third, the Saudis want to ensure that the region doesn’t fall into the grips of a sectarian divide – of Shia versus Sunni. Continue reading “What the Kings of Saudi Arabia and Bahrain Are Thinking” »