12 September2023
By Arnes Biogradlija

U.S. and Saudi Arabia Forge Green Energy and Hydrogen Partnership
The United States and Saudi Arabia have inked an agreement that paves the way for renewable energy and hydrogen connections. This historic pact, announced as part of an ambitious mega project encompassing railways and ports, has
far-reaching goals that could reshape global energy transit.

The primary objective of this groundbreaking agreement is to jointly develop transit corridors that traverse Saudi Arabia, effectively bridging the European and Asian continents. These corridors will facilitate the transportation of renewable electricity and clean hydrogen through transmission cables and gas pipelines, marking a significant step towards a cleaner, more interconnected energy landscape.

The memorandum also includes provisions to enhance energy security, promote clean energy initiatives, bolster digital connectivity, and facilitate data transmission via fiber-optic cables. This multifaceted approach underscores the agreement’s commitment to advancing not only energy but also digital connectivity in the participating nations.

This collaboration is part of the broader megaproject encompassing railways, ports, and energy connections, which was unveiled by several countries during the G20 summit. It is envisioned as a compelling alternative to China’s Belt and Road initiative, with prominent nations such as the United States, India, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Germany, France, Italy, and the European Union joining forces to create the “India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor.”

The project, lauded by leaders including U.S. President Joe Biden, European Commission leader Ursula von der Leyen, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, aims to establish rail and sea routes connecting India to Europe via the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Israel. Notably, this initiative is set to integrate even countries like Jordan and Israel, which currently lack diplomatic relations with Saudi Arabia.

The potential impact of this new corridor is profound, as it promises to significantly reduce transit times for goods between Europe, the Persian Gulf, and South Asia. Beyond transportation, the agreement includes the development of a green hydrogen pipeline and the creation of infrastructure to interconnect power grids across nations. Furthermore, the installation of submarine and land-based cables will expedite data exchange, fostering greater digital integration in the Middle East.

This momentous announcement comes at a critical juncture when China is expanding its international influence and mediating diplomatic relations, such as the recent re-establishment of ties between Saudi Arabia and Iran. China’s Belt and Road initiative looms large on the global stage, with Chinese President Xi Jinping set to host world leaders in Beijing in October to further promote this far-reaching project.