Saudi Arabia and Iran have two sharply contrasting plans for the future. The Saudis’ forward-looking strategy seeks to build a modern economy and society and join the world while Iran’s backward-looking vision wants to consolidate its theocracy, spread its influence in the region, and sustain its war on Israel. Iran’s military has had greater success in building its power in the region, but ultimately, it’s the Saudi vision that will redeem the Middle East. Join us to discuss the best outcome for the region and whether or how it can be achieved.

About the facilitator: David Cheney is an international economics writer, instructor, and trainer for international and educational institutions. He has held a variety of positions at the International Monetary Fund and has provided communications and writing support for a number of multilateral institutions including the World Bank, Inter-American Development Bank and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank. David has served as an adjunct professor of Global Economics and Writing at NYU and currently runs two foreign affairs discussion groups at the Manhattan JCC and Scarsdale Adult School.