The current political rapport between Riyadh and Ankara is an exciting development. If harmonised, it could completely result in the two countries achieving significant influence at regional and international levels. The economies of the two countries stand at $ 1.5 trillion, with high growth rates. This will surely make their collective voice heard loud and clear. In addition, the special status of Saudi Arabia in the Muslim world, together with its political and economic weight, when combined with the newly transformed modern Turkey, will give the two countries a powerful political role in the region.
There are many changes and variables in the region. There is also talk about a new Sykes-Picot agreement, fuelled by ugly sectarian and ethnic strife that threatens the integrity of some Arab states.
The situation in the Arab Spring countries, which keeps them busy with their internal affairs, has created new givens and obvious vacuums. This has led to a decline in the important work that used to pass through the gates of the major Arab capitals. This new reality makes it necessary that the major countries work together so no vacuum can emerge. If a vacuum does emerge, it will be filled by international and regional powers, each pursuing a different agenda. Therefore, Saudi Crown Prince’s visit to Turkey is said to be a light at the end of the tunnel that will help get things back on course in the region.