, Columnist
A Missing Journalist, a Test for Saudi Reform
Business and trade don’t thrive in a climate of fear.
The Saudi consulate in Istanbul.
Photographer: Yasin Akgul/AFP/Getty Images
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In other circumstances, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s interview with Bloomberg News would have provided much-needed reassurance to investors anxious about the progress of his plans to reform Saudi Arabia.
The prince made it clear he remains committed to his ‘Vision 2030’ agenda to diversify his oil-dependent economy, even if some specific goals, such as Aramco’s initial public offering, have had to be delayed. The overall message of the interview was that construction is proceeding apace on the new Saudi Arabia of Prince Mohammed’s conception.