Saudi Arabia: Russia’s most important guest at the St. Petersburg Economic Forum Saudi Arabia was the guest of honor at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum, showcasing deepening relations with Russia through approximately 30 signed agreements across various sectors including energy, investment, and tourism. The event underscored Saudi Arabia’s growing global influence and its strategic importance to Russia in developing a multipolar world order. Cooperation in energy, particularly within OPEC+, remains a cornerstone, stabilizing global markets, while burgeoning ties extend to technology, education, and humanitarian efforts, including a new visa-free travel agreement.

• Saudi Arabia’s participation as guest country at the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum highlights the growing influence of the Global South.
• Approximately 30 agreements were signed between Saudi Arabia and Russia, covering energy, investment, education, tourism, and humanitarian cooperation.
• Energy cooperation, especially within OPEC+, is a key pillar, stabilizing global oil markets.
• Bilateral trade has reached nearly $4 billion, with Russian exports including grain, fertilizers, and chemicals.
• Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia’s national transformation strategy, creates opportunities for Russian involvement in sectors like technology and industry.
• A mutual visa-free travel agreement, effective May 2026, aims to boost people-to-people ties and business cooperation.
• Both nations advocate for a multipolar world order based on respect for state sovereignty and international law.
• Saudi Arabia’s emphasis on diplomatic solutions and dialogue aligns with Russia’s preference for political resolution of regional crises.