Darah Hosts Dialogue Celebrating 80 Years Of Saudi-U.S. Relations And Strategic Partnership

The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) recently hosted a dialogue session titled "80 Years of Friendship." This event was part of an exhibition marking the 80th anniversary of the historic meeting between King Abdulaziz and President Franklin Roosevelt. The session was organized in collaboration with the U.S. Embassy in Riyadh and various government agencies.

Dr. Abdullah Al-Mutawa, a Professor of Modern History at King Saud University, moderated the session. It featured notable speakers such as Ambassador Dr. Raed bin Khalid Qarmali, Director General of Policy Planning at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Dr. Bernard Haykel, a Professor of Near Eastern Studies at Princeton University.

The discussion delved into the evolution of Saudi-U.S. relations from the 1930s to today, highlighting their development into a strategic partnership over more than 90 years. A significant focus was on the meeting between King Abdulaziz and President Roosevelt aboard the USS Quincy, which marked a pivotal moment in strengthening bilateral ties.

Speakers also examined Roosevelt's interactions with other global leaders during that period and discussed King Abdulaziz’s journey from Jeddah to meet with the U.S. president. The impact of their discussions on future relations was another key topic explored during the session.

The dialogue further addressed the ongoing growth of Saudi-U.S. relations, particularly considering recent changes within Saudi Arabia over the past six to seven years. These transformations have significantly influenced bilateral ties amid regional and global challenges.

The session underscored the importance of this strategic partnership in navigating rapid international changes. It emphasized how these enduring relations continue to play a crucial role in addressing contemporary issues faced by both nations.

This event highlighted not only historical milestones but also current dynamics shaping Saudi-U.S. relations, reinforcing their significance in today's geopolitical landscape.

With inputs from SPA