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Friday marks a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between Mexico and ��������: the 73rd anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic relations. Established on Sept. 12, 1952, this long-standing partnership has evolved from a diplomatic handshake into a multifaceted relationship encompassing politics, trade, culture and cooperation. After more than seven decades of collaboration, the anniversary is a timely opportunity to celebrate achievements and reaffirm the two countries’ commitment to deepening collaboration considering the current state of the world.

Through this diplomatic journey, which began during a period when international relations were taking shape after the Second World War, Mexico and �������� have recognized the importance of building bridges to bring continents and cultures closer. Over the decades, this relationship has evolved through high-level visits, strategic agreements and collaborative efforts in international forums, such as the UN and the G20.

One of the earliest milestones came in 1975, with the first visit to �������� of a Mexican president. Thus, within the framework of a visit to the Gulf, Mexican President Luis Echeverria met with King Khalid to analyze regional and global affairs and, principally, the future of bilateral relations. This historic encounter laid the groundwork for future exchanges and deepened political understanding between the two nations.

Companies and entrepreneurs from both countries have explored opportunities in various sectors

Dr. Guillermo Gutiérrez-Nieto

In the following years, the relationship was marked by consistent diplomatic engagement. In 1981, the future King Fahd, then the crown prince, traveled to Mexico to attend the North-South Summit, further solidifying bilateral ties. Embassies were established in both capitals that same year, symbolizing a commitment to long-term cooperation.

The latter part of the 20th century witnessed a reconfiguration of international alliances following the end of the Cold War. In this context, �������� and Mexico strengthened ties with neighboring countries or forged new ones with distant regions, while remaining committed as partners in the reconfiguration of the world order.

In recent years, high-level visits have continued to reinforce this partnership. Visits and meetings between ministers or deputy ministers of different portfolios, as well as between heads or representatives of the ministries of foreign affairs of both countries, have been constant. Moreover, in 2016, Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto visited Riyadh, where he met King Salman. They signed 11 bilateral agreements, ranging from energy and education to cultural exchange. A highlight was the awarding of King Salman with the “Orden del Aguila Azteca,” Mexico’s highest honor for foreigners, which Pena Nieto presented to the Saudi sovereign.

More recently, then-Mexican Foreign Secretary Marcelo Ebrard visited �������� in March 2022 to discuss expanding economic ties and the possibility of establishing a direct air route between the two countries — a move that is still on the agenda and that would further enhance connectivity and tourism for both.

Beyond politics and economics, the relationship between Mexico and �������� has flourished due to their cultural ties

Dr. Guillermo Gutiérrez-Nieto

In this brief historical overview, it is possible to see that one of the pillars of the Mexican-Saudi relationship is trade and investment. �������� is a key supplier of oil products and petrochemicals to Mexico, while Mexico’s main exports to the Kingdom are tubes and pipes of iron or steel, agricultural products and manufactured goods. According to the General Authority for Statistics, Mexico ranks as ��������’s 41st-largest trading partner globally and third in Latin America, with a trade volume of $1.7 billion in 2024.

In terms of investment, companies and entrepreneurs from both countries have explored opportunities in various sectors — construction, industry and renewable energy, among others — and this trend has been supported by the national strategies both countries have announced in recent years: ��������’s Vision 2030 and Plan Mexico, which are producing profound transformations in the economies and societies of both countries.

Beyond politics and economics, the relationship between Mexico and �������� has flourished due to their cultural ties. Within this trend, Mexican cuisine has found enthusiastic followers in �������� thanks to Mexican restaurants in the country and the growing presence of Mexicans living in the Kingdom. Meanwhile, Saudi art and heritage have been savored in Mexico, with highlights including the Saudi National Orchestra and Choir concert in June 2023 and the Saudi Film Nights in 2025.

The 73rd anniversary of the start of diplomatic relations between Mexico and �������� is more than a celebration of history — it marks the beginning of a new era of collaboration. In a multiconflict world shaped by shifting powers and competing interests, these two countries are uniquely positioned to work together in facing the challenges of a fragmented global landscape. By building on their shared values of peace, security and inclusive development, Mexico and �������� can transform this septuagenarian partnership into a driving force for a more interconnected, cooperative and forward-looking world.

• Dr. Guillermo Gutiérrez-Nieto is the chargé d’affaires of the Embassy of Mexico in the Kingdom of ��������.