Relations between Western countries and the Middle East are seen as tense. Part of the European political establishment continues to view this region with mistrust or paternalism. A recent study by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change found that Western citizens tend to perceive the Middle East as conflict-ridden and regressive. Despite this perception, the Middle East remains interconnected with the West, rooted in history, geographical proximity, cultural exchange, and economic interdependence.
Historical heritage and geographical position
The Middle East has bridged East and West, serving as a hub for cultures and commerce. Its strategic position along the Silk Road made it a gateway between Europe, India, and China.
Following the collapse of the Ottoman Empire, the arbitrary division of the region under the Sykes-Picot Agreement had enduring and deeply destabilizing consequences. However, Western mandates contributed to the foundation of modern states and the development of key infrastructure, still in use today.
Educational and cultural influence
The Middle East, as the cradle of the Monotheistic religions, played a foundational role in shaping what is often referred to as “Judeo-Christian civilization”. This shared spiritual and prophetic heritage has laid the groundwork for deep religious and cultural affinities with the West. The arrival of Western missionaries who established schools and hospitals throughout the region stands as a testament to this enduring connection.
Regarding the cultural impact, the Islamic architecture had a profound influence on medieval Christian art in Europe. In certain cases, one can scarcely distinguish between a photograph in Aleppo, Jerusalem, or Palermo. On the other hand, in the 19th century, the Nahda – or the Arab Renaissance – blended Western ideas with indigenous traditions to promote wide-ranging social reforms, all while preserving the Arabic-Ottoman heritage. Today, this legacy of exchange continues through education. Thousands of families across the Middle East opt for Western-style schooling. In 2019, nearly one-third of all the International Baccalaureate programs in the world were offered in Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. The Middle East has nearly 34 French schools in 13 countries with more than 60,000 students run by the AEFE network.
Current economic and institutional developments
On the economic front, the region is increasingly integrated into global markets. A clear example is the Saudi sovereign wealth fund (PIF) receiving A1 ratings from Moody’s and Fitch, enabling new green bond initiatives. The visionary governments have understood the need to prepare for the future and have drawn up strategic plans for the period 2030-2040 (in particular Oman Vision 2040; Egypt Vision 2030; Saudi Vision 2030, or Qatar Vision 2030). These strategic plans reflect a shared ambition to invest in infrastructure, health, energy, and education. According to the World Bank Group’s 2024 report, there is significant untapped potential in MENA.
In addition, the Western-based governance models, Arab countries have focused their reforms on access to electricity and investor protections. Nearly 40% have updated regulations in these areas. Remarkably, the region outperforms high-income OECD countries in tax payments, access to electricity, and construction permits. For instance, obtaining such a permit takes an average of 124 days, 28 days less than the OECD average.
Looking ahead
The Middle East’s proximity and history have fostered a lasting yet pragmatic attachment to the West. It is rooted in history, built on admiration, and tempered by the desire for mutual benefits and respect. As Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman envisions during the Future Investment Initiative forum in Riyadh, the Middle East could indeed become the “new Europe” – not by imitating it, but through collaboration. Establishing a shared economic and cultural zone between the Middle East and Europe is essential to these ties. One concrete initiative could be an Arab “Erasmus” program, youth exchanges, and civic engagement.
Switzerland, with its neutrality, its commitment to multilateralism, and its federalism, is well-positioned to share its expertise and support the region in developing sustainable institutions and genuine partnerships. Finally, drawing on the EU experience in regional integration could provide a valuable framework for reforming the Arab League and laying the foundations for an effective “Arab Union”. Such an initiative would help sustain and renew a historical bond that transcends time and political cycles.
