G20 Country Saudi Arabia: Middle Eastern Monarchy With Global Influence

Saudi Arabia joined the G20 in 2008, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to be part of this influential group. In 2020, it hosted the G20 summit virtually.

G20 Country Saudi Arabia Ruler Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud ( Image Source :Getty )

Ruler: King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud

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Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud is the King of Saudi Arabia and the custodian of the two Holy Mosques, a title of significant religious and political importance in the Islamic world. He is a prominent figure in Saudi Arabian politics and holds the distinction of being the oldest reigning monarch in the country’s history.

Saudi Arabia is a prominent member of the G20 group and has played a pivotal role in shaping the global economic landscape with its contributions to key resolutions addressing pressing global challenges.

The country has a unique position, standing at the crossroads of three continents and at the intersection of emerging and developed markets.

In 2022, Saudi Arabia recorded a growth rate of 8.7 per cent — the highest among the G20 countries, as per General Authority for Statistics data.

Saudi Arabia joined the G20 in 2008, becoming the first Middle Eastern country to be part of this influential group. In 2020, it hosted the G20 summit virtually. The summit was originally planned to be held in Riyadh but took place virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

During its presidency in 2020, Saudi Arabia focused on several critical issues. One of the most notable resolutions was the commitment to ensuring equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines. The G20 leaders pledged to support the Access to COVID-19 Tools (ACT) Accelerator, a global collaboration aimed at accelerating the development and distribution of vaccines, treatments, and diagnostics.

Another significant initiative was the "Circular Carbon Economy" (CCE), which addresses the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions while sustaining economic growth. The CCE framework emphasises the importance of innovation, technology, and collaboration to achieve environmental sustainability.

Apart from its participation in the G20, Saudi Arabia is also an active member of other influential groupings. It is a founding member of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), which aims to ensure regional stability and security.

Moreover, the kingdom is part of the Arab League, strengthening its ties with other Arab nations. It is also a part of the United Nations, World Trade Organization (WTO), the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), and co-chairs the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC).