President Zelensky’s Upcoming Visit to Saudi Arabia and Bilateral Discussions

Ukraine is preparing for President Zelensky’s visit to Saudi Arabia, focused on enhancing investment and economic agreements. Senior U.S. officials are set to meet with Russian representatives, but Ukraine will not partake in these discussions. Ukrainian officials emphasize interest in various projects from Saudi Arabia and dismiss any current negotiations with Russia as unproductive.

Delegations from Saudi Arabia and Ukraine convened on February 16 to enhance investment and bilateral cooperation, ahead of President Volodymyr Zelensky’s anticipated visit. During this visit, which includes discussions with regional nations, Zelensky aims to sign several economic agreements, as stated by First Deputy Prime Minister and Economic Minister Yulia Svyrydenko.

Svyrydenko expressed optimism about attracting greater investment from Middle Eastern countries, noting a keen interest from Saudi Arabia in infrastructure, energy, innovation, and agribusiness sectors, particularly in fertilizer production. Days later, Zelensky informed reporters during the Munich Security Conference of his plans to visit Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Turkey, explicitly stating he would not meet with any Russian or U.S. officials during these visits.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, and Middle East Envoy Steve Witkoff are scheduled for talks with unidentified Russian representatives, with the Ukrainian delegation declining to engage in these discussions. Mykhailo Podolyak, an advisor to President Zelensky, asserted that no substantial negotiations are forthcoming, indicating Russia’s current lack of readiness for talks. Additionally, former President Donald Trump has announced intentions to meet with President Vladimir Putin in Saudi Arabia to negotiate a ceasefire between Kyiv and Moscow.

In summary, Ukraine is preparing for President Zelensky’s significant visit to Saudi Arabia to secure investment and economic agreements while maintaining its stance of not participating in U.S.-Russian talks. Ukrainian officials express confidence in the potential for investment in critical sectors, although they deem current negotiations with Russia as unproductive. This visit signals Ukraine’s strategic engagement with Middle Eastern nations amidst ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Original Source: kyivindependent.com