Saudi Arabia is set to host a significant diplomatic meeting between U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov on February 18, aimed at rebuilding strained U.S.-Russia relations. The talks, centered on the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, highlight Riyadh's desire to strengthen its political influence while reinforcing ties with the U.S. Experts suggest that the meetings reflect Saudi ambitions to enhance its role in international diplomacy, signaling a potential shift in Middle Eastern power dynamics amid rising tensions with smaller Gulf states like Qatar and the U.A.E.
"Both Riyadh and Washington would like to expand relations under the current U.S. administration," said Tarzi.
"Riyadh wanted to have a bigger diplomatic footprint," said Amin Tarzi, an adjunct professor of International Relations.
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