State Department Revises Employees' Family Residency Policy in Kingdom
Jun 28, 2009

"..The U.S. State Department, citing a "greatly improved security environment" in Saudi Arabia, revised its policies governing residency of employees' family members in the Kingdom in a June 26 announcement. The Bureau of Consular Affairs "Travel Warning," posted to the Department's Web site, said all family members were authorized to return to the Consulate General in Dhahran and adult family members and non-school age children were authorized to return to the Embassy in Riyadh. The State Department employees at the Consulate in Jeddah will continue to serve unaccompanied tours.."

The Events in Iran: Arab Reactions - Entering a New Era
Jun 26, 2009

"The post-election turmoil that erupted in Iran this month stands to reshape not only the domestic landscape, but also Tehran's behavior in the region and its relations with the West. This is the argument made by Gamal A. G. Soltan, a senior research fellow at Al-Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies in Cairo and a visiting professor of political science at The American University in Cairo, in this weeks issue of Bitterlemons. Soltan calls for new approaches by the United States in its relationship with Iran as he sees the Tehran regime's loss of legitimacy resulting in increased regional adventurism. We thank Bitterlemons for permission to share this article with you today. The Bitterlemons.org Web site is an excellent source for essays, interviews and articles on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and related regional developments. You can find more at Bitterlemons-International.org including this week's edition with the other articles on the topic, "The events in Iran: Arab reactions." .."

Quiet in the Kingdom, Reacting to Turmoil in Iran: A Conversation with Jon Alterman
Jun 25, 2009

"As the post-presidential election strife and government crackdown in Iran continue through a second week we took a look at the reaction to and impact of the turmoil on Saudi and American interests in the Gulf. We turned to Dr. Jon Alterman, Director of the Middle East Program at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, D.C. for his perspectives. Here for your consideration is the SUSRIS exclusive interview conducted by phone with Dr. Alterman on June 23, 2009. We invite your attention to the comprehensive bank of links covering US-Saudi-Iranian issues that follows the interview.."

Saudi Press Marks King Abdullah Anniversary
Jun 19, 2009

"As he celebrates the fourth anniversary of his accession to the throne, Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah can join with his people in looking back on some truly groundbreaking achievements and look forward to further advances to bring Saudi Arabia to Developed Country status.." 

New Media in the Gulf
Jun 17, 2009

"Questions about press reporting in the Kingdom were taken on from two perspectives in Arab News articles this week. Omaima Al-Fardan reported on reactions among Arabic-language editors in the Kingdom to Saudi Arabia's press freedom ranking by Reporters Without Borders. Fardan's report, "Opportunities for journalists laudable," focused on red lines in journalism and featured comments from five current and former editors and scholars. It is provided separately via email and on the Web site. Also in Arab News on-line on June 17th a report from Samar Fatany, a Saudi radio journalist, talked about new media, citizen journalism and blogging in the Gulf and the relationship of these emerging methodologies to traditional media business models as discussed at a recent workshop. Here for your consideration is Ms. Fatany's report.."

Red Lines in the Press
Jun 17, 2009

"This is one of two articles covering questions about the practice of journalism in the Kingdom that were reported in Arab News on June 17. They tackle media challenges from different perspectives. Samar Fatany, in an article about on-line journalism in the Gulf, talked about new media, citizen journalism and blogging in the Gulf and the relationship of these emerging methodologies to traditional media business models as discussed at a recent workshop. It is provided separately via email and on the Web site. Omaima Al-Fardan reported on reactions among Arabic-language editors in the Kingdom to Saudi Arabia's press freedom ranking by Reporters Without Borders. Fardan's report, "Opportunities for journalists laudable," focused on red lines in journalism and featured comments from five current and former editors and scholars. It is provided here for your consideration.." 

U.S.-Saudi Trade Relations - John Sfakianakis
Jun 10, 2009

"On the occasion of President Barack Obama's visit to Saudi Arabia last week, SABB Chief Economist John Sfakianakis published a report on the trade component of the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom. The report provides a very good overview of this important element of the ties between Americans and Saudis but it also includes a concise and informative analysis ("What we think") of the nature of the overall relationship. We are pleased to share Dr. Sfakianakis' report with you today and thank him and SABB for permission to reprint it here. You can access the original report which includes many helpful charts on the Web site.."

Administration Announces James Smith as Nominee for Ambassador to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Jun 4, 2009

"Brigadier General Smith (USAF, Ret.) is International Business Development Executive, Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems. Previous assignments at Raytheon include Vice President of Government Business in Wichita, Kansas, and Vice President of Precision Engagement in Tucson, Arizona. Prior to joining Raytheon, he was director of Navy C2 programs for Lockheed Martin Mission Systems.."

"A New Beginning" - Dialogue Between America and the Muslim World - President Barack Obama's Cairo Address
Jun 4, 2009

"President Barack Obama opened a dialogue with the Arab and Muslim world in January with an interview on Al-Arabiya television when he said, "My job is to communicate the fact that the United States has a stake in the well-being of the Muslim world," adding, "We are ready to initiate a new partnership based on mutual respect and mutual interest, then I think that we can make significant progress." The President continued the dialogue today with a much anticipated address to the Muslim world delivered in Cairo in which he called for "a new beginning." SUSRIS is pleased to present a transcript of President Obama's address for your consideration.."

Ready to Initiate a New Partnership and a Hand of Friendship: President Obama - Al-Arabiya Interview
Jun 4, 2009

"..President Barack Obama delivered a major address today, June 4,. 2009, calling for a new beginning in relations between the United States and the Muslim world from Cairo. The dialogue was said to have begun with the President's first televised interview after taking office. SUSRIS is pleased to reprint that interview for your consideration.."

Alliances Between Nations, Friendship Between People - President Barack Obama's Ankara Address
Jun 4, 2009

President Barack Obama's dialogue with the Arab and Muslim world began in January when he gave his first television interview with Al-Arabiya television choosing to address the challenge of building bridges with America. The dialogue continued through his April visit to Turkey and his address to the Turkish Parliament in which he said, "We seek broader engagement based on mutual interest and mutual respect. We will listen carefully, we will bridge misunderstandings, and we will seek common ground. We will be respectful, even when we do not agree. We will convey our deep appreciation for the Islamic faith, which has done so much over the centuries to shape the world -- including in my own country." Today President Obama delivered a much anticipated address to the Muslim world which aimed to further the dialogue. In the Cairo address he referred to his earlier remarks in Ankara. SUSRIS is pleased to present those remarks here to provide context on today's address from Egypt.

Warm Welcome to Barack Obama - Arab News Editorial
Jun 3, 2009

"..President Barack Obama began a six-day, four-country tour today with a stop in Riyadh for meetings with King Abdullah and Saudi officials with a welcome of "high hopes" in an Arab News editorial. SUSRIS is pleased to reprint it here for your consideration. Arab News was founded in 1975, the first English-language daily newspaper in the Kingdom, and is one of the most widely read and respected sources of news on developments in Saudi Arabia.."

"The President of the United States of America, Barack Obama arrived here today on a two-day official visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. At King Khalid International Airport, he was received by Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz Al Saud who welcomed the President and the accompanying delegation.."

President Obama's Visit to the Kingdom - Setting the Scene - A Conversation with Jean-Fran�ois Seznec
Jun 3, 2009

"President Barack Obama arrives today for his first official visit to Saudi Arabia with a very full plate of bilateral and regional issues to discuss with King Abdullah. To help us set the scene we talked with Jean-Francois Seznec, a Visiting Professor at Georgetown University. He has over 25 years experience in international finance and banking, including a decade in the Gulf. He regularly shares his expertise on Middle East affairs through numerous articles and television and radio appearances, and his earlier SUSRIS interviews. We are pleased that we were able to talk with Professor Seznec by phone from his Maryland home on May 31, 2009, to share his expertise with you and wish to thank him for his time.."

Saudis, Others Looking Forward to Obama Visit - Edward Yeranian
May 28, 2009

"..President Obama is set to visit Saudi Arabia on June 3 to meet with King Abdullah, just a day before visiting Cairo, and many Saudis are speculating about what the two men will discuss. As the guardian of Islam's holy sites and the author of a 2002 Arab peace plan, King Abdullah carries much clout in the Islamic world. U.S. ties with Saudi Arabia go back to the founding of the Saudi Kingdom in the 1930s, and were strengthened with the discovery of oil by a U.S. company several years later. Saudi Arabia became a key U.S. ally during the Cold War, and despite brief periods of rocky relations, has kept close ties with the United States ever since. President Barack Obama's visit to Saudi Arabia is being seen by many analysts as an opportunity to renew those ties, as well as to address many mutual concerns, including Iran, the Arab-Israeli conflict, and the global economic crisis.."

Threats, Risks and Vulnerabilities in the Gulf: Terrorism and Asymmetric Warfare - Anthony H. Cordesman and Adam C. Seitz
May 26, 2009

"..In December 2008 American Defense Secretary Robert Gates spoke about regional security issues at the Manama Dialogue, an international forum that brings together the various elements of national security establishments representing Gulf countries and key external powers. Among the issues he raised was the case of Iran, about which he said it is "a country whose every move seems designed to create maximum anxiety in the international community." He cited Tehran's support -- training and supplies -- to groups undermining the Iraqi government and development efforts for long range missiles and nuclear weapons. What to do about Iran, he asked? Gates gave two suggestions. First was to support the diplomatic and economic pressure on Iran including implementation of financial measures called for by the United Nations. Second was "by welcoming the new Iraq into the Arab fold," as a way to inhibit Iranian influence. With Secretary Gates' Manama Dialogue remarks as background we are pleased to present for your consideration a report from the Pentagon on his visit this week to Egypt and Saudi Arabia to discuss developments regarding Iran -- and renewed calls for stronger ties to Baghdad -- along with an emphasis on America's relations with its partners and consultations on the challenges in the region.." 

Rehab the Terrorists .. With Love - Robert Lacey

"..In August 2007, Christopher Boucek's comprehensive article on the Saudi extremist rehabilitation program was shared with you on SUSRIS. At the time few Americans had heard of the program which Boucek described as an effort to combat the support of extremist ideology in the kingdom through a series of lesser-known "soft" counter-terrorism measures aimed at combating the appeal of extremist takfiri beliefs. The rehab program, combined with more traditional security measures, has contributed to the counter terrorism successes seen in the Kingdom. Tonight you will learn more about this important effort through a Public Broadcasting Service (U.S.) program called PBS NOW featuring author Robert Lacey who wrote "The Kingdom" and the soon to be released sequel "Inside the Kindom." Lacey enjoyed access to the rehab camps and officials to see if the program is working and he will share the results of his inquiry tonight on PBS NOW.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Introduction

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was moderator Edward Luce, the Washington Bureau Chief of the Financial Times.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Neil Crompton

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was Neil Crompton, Counselor for the Foreign and Security Policy Group.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Abdulrahman Al-Saeed

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was Abdulrahman Al-Saeed, Director General of the Specialized Studies Center in Riyadh and Advisor to the Royal Court.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Wyche Fowler

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was The Honorable Wyche Fowler, Former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia and Former United States Senator.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Joseph McMillan

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was Joseph McMillan, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for International Security Affairs Department of Defense.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Pierre Vimont

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was His Excellency Pierre Vimont, the Ambassador of France to the United States and Former Chief of Staff to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in the Republic of France..

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 3 - Anne-Marie Slaughter

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the third and final session, "Through Saudi Arabia's Window and Other Lenses: Middle East Dynamics and Stakeholder Challenges". Among the featured speakers was The Honorable Anne-Marie Slaughter, the Director of Policy Planning for the Department of State and the Former Dean of the Woodrow Wilson School of Public & International Affairs at Princeton University.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 - Introduction

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S.".."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 - Ibrahim Al-Assaf

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Among the featured speakers was His Excellency Ibrahim Al-Assaf, Minister of Finance of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 - Heidi Crebo-Rediker

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Among the featured speakers was Heidi Crebo-Rediker, Chief of International Finance and Economics for the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 - Brad Bourland

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Among the featured speakers was Brad Bourland, Chief Economist for Jadwa Investments and Former Chief Economist for Samba Financial Group.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 -

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Among the featured speakers was His Excellency Muhammad Al-Jasser, Governor of the Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 -

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." Among the featured speakers was Flynt Leverett, Director of Geopolitics of Energy Initiative for the New America Foundation and Former Senior Director for the Middle East of the National Security Council.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 2 - Questions and Answers

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and how the perspective on these challenges look from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the second session, "Economics as a National Security Imperative: Challenges for Saudi Arabia and the U.S." This is the question and answer segment of the second session.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Panel I - William Burns

"..Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the keynote address by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs William J. Burns who was introduced by Steve Clemons, the conference organizer from the New America Foundation. Of note, Secretary Burns mentioned in his remarks that King Abdullah had met with Israeli President Shimon Peres in New York when both were attending the "Culture of Peace" Interfaith Dialogue meeting at the United Nations. Shortly after Burns' comments the Saudi government claimed he was mistaken and demanded a retraction. Burns also discussed the case of an 8-year old girl who was married to a man reported to be in his 50's. Three days after the conference there was a reversal in the case and a judge annulled the marriage. On May 3, 2009 Arab News reported that the Saudi government had begun studying regulation of marriage among minors.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Conference Intro - Steve Clemons & Abdulaziz Al Fahad
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the introductions by Steve Clemons of the New America Foundation and Abdulaziz Al Fahad of the Committee for International Trade; and the first panel, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve. Separate emails will provide each panelist's remarks and the question and answer period transcript.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Peter Robertson
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the first session, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve," which began with comments from Mr. Peter Robertson, Vice Chairman of Chevron and Co-Chairman, U.S.-Saudi Arabian Business Council.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Chuck Hagel
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the first session, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve." Among the featured speakers was former U.S. Senator Chuck Hagel, Chairman of the Atlantic Council of the United States and Distinguished Professor in the Practice of National Governance, Georgetown University.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Turki Al Faisal
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the first session, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve." Among the featured speakers was Prince Turki Al Faisal, former Saudi Ambassador to the United States and former Director, Saudi Arabia General Intelligence Service, and currently Chairman, King Faisal Center for Research & Islamic Studies.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Rita Hauser
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the introductions by Steve Clemons of the New America Foundation and Abdulaziz Al Fahad of the Committee for International Trade; and the first panel, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve. Separate emails will provide each panelist's remarks and the question and answer period transcript.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Zbigniew Brzezinski
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the first session, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve." Among the featured speakers was Doctor Zbigniew Brzezinski, former National Security Advisor to President Jimmy Carter and Trustee, Center for Strategic and International Studies.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Abdullah Alireza
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the introductions by Steve Clemons of the New America Foundation and Abdulaziz Al Fahad of the Committee for International Trade; and the first panel, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve. Separate emails will provide each panelist's remarks and the question and answer period transcript.."

U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium - Session 1 - Questions and Answers
May 8, 2009

"..Last week a major forum addressing the state of and prospects for the relationship between the United States and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia was convened in Washington by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee for International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Chambers of Commerce and Industry. Distinguished speakers spent the day providing perspectives and insights on what the relationship should look like, how economics was shaping the national security picture vis a vis the relationship, the challenges for America in the region and what the perspective on these challenges look like from the Saudi Arabian point of view. Today we are pleased to provide the transcripts from the introductions by Steve Clemons of the New America Foundation and Abdulaziz Al Fahad of the Committee for International Trade; and the first panel, "A Forward Projection of What the Saudi-U.S. Relationship Should Look Like and Needs to Achieve. Separate emails will provide each panelist's remarks and the question and answer period transcript.."

Gates Talks Guantanamo with Saudis
May 6, 2009

"..U.S. Defense Secretary Robert Gates - on a visit to Saudi Arabia - says he spoke to local officials about using a successful program for absorbing their detainees from Guantanamo for the large number of Yemenis now being held at the controversial facility. Secretary Gates says he raised the possibility with Saudi Assistant Interior Minister Mohammed bin Nayaf, telling him the United States is impressed with the Saudi repatriation program. "I think they've probably done as good, if not better job, of that than almost anybody and explored the possibility of some of the Yemeni detainees coming through that system," he said. "I think the notion would be, if it worked at all, it would be those with strong Saudi family connections or strong connections to Saudi Arabia. Nothing was decided. Nothing was specifically asked. It was more a general conversation about the capability and about the possibility.".."

Gates Trip Aims to Reaffirm Ties With Egypt, Saudi Arabia
May 4, 2009

"..In December 2008 American Defense Secretary Robert Gates spoke about regional security issues at the Manama Dialogue, an international forum that brings together the various elements of national security establishments representing Gulf countries and key external powers. Among the issues he raised was the case of Iran, about which he said it is "a country whose every move seems designed to create maximum anxiety in the international community." He cited Tehran's support -- training and supplies -- to groups undermining the Iraqi government and development efforts for long range missiles and nuclear weapons. What to do about Iran, he asked? Gates gave two suggestions. First was to support the diplomatic and economic pressure on Iran including implementation of financial measures called for by the United Nations. Second was "by welcoming the new Iraq into the Arab fold," as a way to inhibit Iranian influence. With Secretary Gates' Manama Dialogue remarks as background we are pleased to present for your consideration a report from the Pentagon on his visit this week to Egypt and Saudi Arabia to discuss developments regarding Iran -- and renewed calls for stronger ties to Baghdad -- along with an emphasis on America's relations with its partners and consultations on the challenges in the region.."

"..The State Department publishes a report to Congress every year, by April 30, covering developments during the previous year in terrorism. According to the State Department the report discusses "countries in which acts of terrorism occurred, countries that are state sponsors of terrorism, and countries determined by the Secretary to be of particular interest in the global war on terror." The report, renamed "Country Reports on Terrorism" from the "Patterns of Global Terrorism" in 2005, also discusses international counterterrorism cooperation. Today we are pleased to present for your consideration several items related to the release of the report. First, in this IOI, is the country report addressing counterterrorism activities in Saudi Arabia.."

"..The U.S. State Department released the annual report on terrorism, "Country Reports on Terrorism 2008," this week as reported in a SUSRIS item of interest earlier today. This item provides a detailed report on efforts at counterterrorism cooperation between the United States and Saudi Arabia.."

"..The United States Department of State has recognized in its 2008 Country Reports on Terrorism the counterterrorism efforts made by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The annual study cited ongoing steps taken by the Saudi government to publicly combat extremist ideology and to effectively eliminate terrorist threats. The report also noted the level of international cooperation being made by Saudi government and intelligence officials. The report stated: "The Saudi government continued to make strides in its public counterterrorism programs.. ..Saudi cooperation is significant, and U.S. law enforcement and intelligence agencies have benefited and continue to benefit from Saudi information and intelligence on individuals and organizations. U.S. law enforcement agencies have provided counterterrorism training to Saudi security services in both Saudi Arabia and in the United States.".."

Saudis and Americans Work to Support Student Family in the Midst of Tragedy
Apr 22, 2009

"..Cookeville, Tennessee � When Ibrahim Alghamdi drove his wife Eman to the Cookeville Regional Medical Center Emergency Room last month it was with the expectation that the birth of their second child would be routine. It was not. Ibrahim, a Saudi engineering student at nearby Tennessee Technological University, learned his wife was suffering from Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome, or ARDS, which is frequently fatal. Doctors at the Cookeville hospital delivered their son, Abdullah Ibrahim Alghamdi, on March 2, 2009 but Eman was soon placed on a ventilator and treated in the Intensive Care Unit for respiratory failure. Ibrahim remained at her side at the hospital while caring for the newborn and their sixteen-month-old daughter.."

"U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium" - A National Policy Forum
Apr 18, 2009
"..This special report provides information on a major event addressing U.S.-Saudi relations set for April 27, 2009 in Washington, D.C.  The forum -- "U.S.-Saudi Relations in a World Without Equilibrium" -- is being organized by the New America Foundation (NAF) and the Committee on International Trade (CIT) of the Saudi Council of Chambers of Commerce.  This special report provides information on the forum from the NAF and insights about some of the speakers and panels from the event's organizer, Steve Clemons of the New America Foundation.." 

Saudi Al-Qaeda Leader - New Strategy of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula
Apr 16, 2009

"..In a statement delivered on Saudi Arabia's state-owned Al-Ikhbariyah TV, a former leading member of al-Qaeda in Yemen, now in detention in Riyadh, described the revised tactical and strategic approach taken by al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, a new organization that combines the Saudi Arabian and Yemeni branches of al-Qaeda (Al-Ikhbariyah TV, March 27). Captured in Afghanistan in 2001, al-Awfi was detained as an enemy combatant in Guantanamo under the name Mohamed Atiq Awayd al-Harbi (prisoner no. 333). In November 2007, al-Awfi was transferred to Saudi Arabia, where he entered the Counseling Program run by Saudi Arabia's Advisory Committee responsible for the rehabilitation of Islamist extremists.."

Saudi Arabia: Succession Steps
Apr 10, 2009

"..The naming of Prince Nayef bin Abdul-Aziz as Saudi Arabia's second deputy prime minister put to rest three years of speculation about this influential position -- historically held by the heir-in-waiting but deliberately left vacant under King Abdullah's succession reforms. As is typical with the kingdom's opaque royal politics, long-time observers do not agree whether Nayef is now a shoo-in to be the next crown prince, but there is a general consensus that he is at least one step closer. Circumstance required Abdullah to appoint a "caretaker" head of state before he left the kingdom on Mar. 29 for the Arab League summit in Qatar and the G20 summit in the UK. With the ailing Crown Prince Sultan bin Abdul-Aziz, who holds the title of deputy prime minister, still recovering from surgery abroad, the constitution requires the designation of the next-in-command as acting ruler, which would fall to the unfilled post of second deputy prime minister. King Abdullah had pointedly not named any of his half-brothers (he has no full brothers) to that position, traditionally reserved for the second in line to the throne. Instead, he announced in 2006 the formation of the Allegiance Commission -- a group of 34 princes tasked with selecting future kings and crown princes.."

Leadership in the Kingdom: A Conversation with Jean-Fran�ois Seznec
Apr 9, 2009

"The immediate cause for Prince Nayef being named is probably the illness of the Crown Prince Sultan. The Crown Prince is reportedly extremely ill and may not be able to resume his responsibilities. Normally, as the King leaves the Kingdom, the Crown Prince, as First Deputy PM, is placed in charge of the government. Lately the King has been abroad for numerous conferences, leaving the government without leadership. Hence, the most senior cabinet member was slated to become the 2nd deputy PM. This of course, in true Saudi fashion, has been a long time in the making. Prince Sultan has been ill for a number of years, and the present move could have been expected sometime ago, but it was probably subject to extensive consultations between the King and all the parties within the royal family.."