Saudi Industry Minister Hails "Strategic" Türkiye Ties; Predicts Regional Strength Amid Supply Chain Shifts

Saudi Minister Bandar Alkhorayef discusses $2.4 trillion in mineral wealth and a proposed rail link connecting Saudi Arabia to Türkiye via Syria.

By: AXL Media

Published: May 1, 2026, 6:02 AM EDT

A New Era of Industrial Synergy

In an exclusive interview with Anadolu Agency, Bandar Alkhorayef highlighted the deepening alignment between Saudi Arabia’s industrial strategy and Türkiye’s diversified manufacturing base. The Minister noted that as global tensions reshape international trade, the two nations are finding significant common ground in sectors ranging from intermediate industries to high-tech manufacturing. Alkhorayef drew a parallel to the resilience seen during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggesting that current geopolitical shifts are acting as a catalyst for Saudi Arabia to accelerate its domestic industrial output and strengthen regional supply chains.

Logistics and the Proposed "Northern" Rail Link

One of the most ambitious points of the strategic dialogue involves overcoming regional trade bottlenecks. Alkhorayef confirmed that transport solutions remain a top priority for increasing the competitiveness of Saudi exports. Specifically, he pointed to a proposed rail project designed to connect Saudi Arabia with Türkiye via Jordan and Syria. While acknowledging the complexities of the route, the Minister emphasized that such infrastructure is vital for improving access to raw materials and creating a seamless trade corridor that bypasses traditional maritime disruptions.

Saudi Non-Oil Exports Reach Record Highs

The Minister provided a robust progress report on the Kingdom’s industrial push, noting that years of capital investment are now yielding tangible economic results.