Despite the American dominance in the world on the economic and political fronts, other countries are emerging as strong contenders – not just in Europe, but in Asia as well. With highly competent human capital, economically advanced, industry-dependent countries have emerged in Asia based on a strong vision laid by them more than 20 years ago. China, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, India and Indonesia are some examples. The industrial sector accounts for exports, strong currency and the creation of job opportunities. Being dependant on industrial expansion for national growth, these countries are hungry for energy, particularly oil and gas. Saudi Arabia, the most resourceful energy owner in the world, enjoys security and political stability. This has reflected positively on its relations with countries all over the world. Since Asian countries are in need of energy to expand their industrial base, they have found a reliable partner in Saudi Arabia. With Vision 2030 in mind, Saudi Arabia is aware that it is in need of Asian countries and their markets just as they need the Kingdom. The fact that the Vision in its written form has been translated into Chinese and Japanese, besides English, reflects the importance given by the Kingdom to these countries. The tour of King Salman to Malaysia, Indonesia, China and Japan is reflective of the common economic interests the Kingdom shares with these countries, mainly focused on energy, industry and technology. This is expected to be translated into joint agreements at the private sector and government levels. Saudis are aware of the importance of opening up to all friendly countries. It had opened up to various European and Asian countries, besides the US, when it started offering scholarships to students to study in these countries. The ever-changing world calls for cultural and scientific diversification – and of course economic diversification, dictated by fluctuating global politics. Over time, the Kingdom's economic relations are spread across all continents of the world, becoming stronger day by day.
