Saudi Arabia has an ambitious agenda and a strategic planning diplomacy that combines several uses of power resources to protect national interests and security. It is a strategy that emphasizes the need for a strong economy and military, as well as stresses investing in alliances and institutions to expand the influence and legitimacy of state actions.

Nations fail because of weak governments, poor education systems, lack of resources, an ineffective system of laws and bad public services, which cause brain drain as people search for a better quality of life and more stable political conditions.

However, a high-quality education sector is one of the important factors contributing to a country’s development. Saudi Arabia has witnessed a significant growth in academic institutions, as it tops the rankings for the best universities in the Arab world. Moreover, educational power can strengthen several mechanisms as a resource that countries possess and an instrument in achieving goals. Educational influence determines the popular attitude in international matters and builds international bridges between nations.

Saudi Arabia enjoys a geopolitical location that is strategically located at the crossroads of three continents and uses a smart strategy in attracting people from different parts of the globe. Firstly, as the home of the Islamic religion it attracts millions of Muslims and provides them with a safe and secure environment.

Secondly, as one of the wealthiest nations with the world's most profitable company, it attracts various regional and international investors to join the local market and trade profitably. Thirdly, as a tourist attraction that maintains the environmental and cultural authenticity of the land, the entertainment and tourism industry attracts different age groups and nationalities with major projects, such as Al-Ula, Amaala, NEOM and Al-Qiddiya.

Currently, Saudi Arabia is working to become one of the world’s smartest countries, as it embarks on a major investment push into technology and cybersecurity. The Kingdom has shifted its focus from transactional innovation to an emphasis on projects with a deep socio-economic impact, to fulfil its transition from an oil-based to a knowledge-based economy.

Based on Saudi Arabia’s political and financial influence as well as its international alliances and military strength, it has earned a place on the list of the world’s most powerful countries and has been ranked number nine. However, global economic security will continue to depend on Saudi Arabia’s cooperation, and in 2020, the 15th meeting of the G20 will take place in Riyadh.

There is no need to use “conspiracy theory” or “Whataboutism” to defend the Kingdom, as its accomplishments and development will continue to expand even if some countries are trying to prevent that from happening. In other words, Saudi Arabia is obliged to succeed and will not be negatively affected by doomed-to-fail campaigns, senseless defamation and attempts at disruption.

The author is a Saudi political analyst specialized in International Relations. She can be reached at: ekleel.sallam@hotmail.com Twitter: @EkleelBS