Dozens of people marched in London on Wednesday to welcome Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. Supporters gathered outside Buckingham Palace where Prince Mohammed was received by Queen Elizabeth II and outside the British Prime Minister’s Residence, where he held bilateral talks with Theresa May.
The participants raised Saudi flags and portraits of the young crown prince, who is leading a series of economic, social and political reforms, the largest in Saudi history.
They praised the British-Saudi relations at the social and economic levels and the exchange of culture and knowledge, especially in light of the influx of Saudi students to British universities. Other participants hailed defense and security relations and joint efforts to combat terrorism.
“The visit of Prince Mohammed bin Salman has many implications, especially for younger generations, and the reforms led by the Saudi Crown Prince will not only benefit Saudi Arabia, but also the entire region because it gives a voice to young people who yearn for change,” said Mohammed Ali, an Arab student at the University of London.
London streets and train stations were decorated with banners welcoming the young prince, bearing slogans such as “Two Kingdoms United” and “He Is Bringing Change to Saudi Arabia.”
Announcements were posted in leading British newspapers and websites. The Guardian published an article praising social reforms led by the Saudi crown prince.
The Times also published an announcement addressing the cultural aspect of Vision 2030, saying that the program created a new and vibrant Saudi Arabia.
The magazine noted that Vision 2030 empowered families by encouraging culture, entertainment, healthy living and environmental sustainability.
