Mohammed bin Salman

Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) is the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia and the architect of the Vision 2030 program, aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy. He is newsworthy due to his central role in Saudi Arabia's economic and foreign policy initiatives. Recent developments include a review of Vision 2030, scaling back megaprojects, and a focus on sectors with quicker returns. MBS has been engaging in regional diplomacy, including a call with the Iranian President amid US-Iran tensions and brokering efforts in the Sudan conflict, reportedly prompting US consideration of broader sanctions. He also faces continued scrutiny regarding human rights, exemplified by a UK court ordering Saudi Arabia to pay damages to a dissident targeted with Pegasus spyware. Furthermore, his name surfaced in a Pakistani fraud case involving gifts received during a state visit. Despite controversies, MBS remains a key figure in regional politics and Saudi Arabia's economic transformation.