Ties with Yemen have gone from bad to worse stemming from a border dispute over the Hanish Island in 1998. Prince Abdallah has privately warned President Ali Abdallah Saleh of serious repercussions if any border transgressions arise in the future. Qatar has broadcast irreverent televised criticism of Saudi policy. This practice has infuriated Riyadh. The UAE provided the kingdom with much needed assistance during a financial dip in late 1998 improving the relations that had been strained due to border disputes. The new Jordanian monarch has been offered immense support. Relations with other monarchies are also expected to change over the coming years. Egypt depends on the Saudis for financial assistance and is therefore not in a critical position. Warm relations with Syria are being maintained. The Saudi Central Bank has recently decided to forgive Syria s debt. Other assistance to Syria consists of interest-free loans, free shipments of oil, and assistance in paying some of Syria s debt to other world financial institutions.
The press has recently made much of Abdullah s desire to distance himself from American dependence. While Israel continues to be a source of friction between the two nations, many officials feel comfortable with the relationship now enjoyed between Americans and Saudis. Riyadh is unbending in its support for the Palestinians. The relationship, once described as special between Washington and Riyadh, has now become a domestic liability in Saudi Arabia. Despite the apparent deterioration between the two nations, a speech given by US Ambassador Wyche Fowler to a Riyadh audience stated that:
the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has become a good example for other countries in terms of matching the demands of the contemporary era with preservation of social traditions and family values. The wisdom that characterizes the Saudi leadership will enable it, in this century, to enhance still further its well-deserved status as one of the countries that plays a strategic role in international affairs. Saudi/American relations constitute bonds of confidence and friendship that go beyond strategic interests and reach to the core of human ties.