Discussion of Saudi Transition of Power at Duncaster’s August 8 World Affairs Series

The August World Affairs Series will focus on the transition of power in Saudi Arabia and its possible effect on the country’s relationship with the United States. This meeting will be held at Duncaster from 10:30 a.m. to noon and is open to the community with preregistration.

The current ruler, King Salman, has removed his heir apparent, Muhammad bin Nayef who is 58, and replaced him with a young son, Mohammed bin Salman who is only 31. “This action is a reflection of the ruler’s need to adapt to the new realities which the kingdom faces,” points out Herb Hershenson, the World Affairs program facilitator. “Throughout its existence, the modern [Saudi] regime has been able to maintain control by utilizing the enormous wealth created by the vast oil reserves which it possesses. Now that oil prices have dropped substantially, the funds used to placate the population have become much less plentiful.”

Over time the United States has had a love-hate relationship with Saudi Arabia. It is based on the U.S.’ need to safeguard the key source of oil. “The rise in U.S. oil and gas production has greatly diminished our dependence on foreign oil imports,” explains Hershenson. “Currently the U.S. attitude towards Saudi Arabia is clouded by different voices within the Administration.”

The discussion is part of Duncaster’s World Affairs Series, which is presented to the community by the residents of Duncaster on the second and fourth Tuesdays of every month. Participants include Duncaster residents, as well as local citizens.

To register, please call 860-380-5006 or email sLombardo@Duncaster.org.