Give me key points for a PowerPoint presentation slide for the following essay: •	Introduction (including research problem, questions, hypothesis, methodology) – POINT 1

	Introduction

International trade plays an essential role in driving economic growth, providing new opportunities for countries to strengthen their economic prospects through increased global market access. Saudi Arabia, a prominent player in global trade, has been diversifying its trade relations to invite a more balanced level of trade and economic growth. As the largest economy in the Middle East, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia heavily relies on the export of oil and petroleum products, which has driven its economic growth and development over the past several decades. However, the country now faces challenges in diversifying its economy and engaging in international trade relations to ensure sustainable economic growth. To better understand how Saudi Arabia’s trade relations and economic development are intertwined, it is essential to examine the link between its pattern of international trade and the level of economic development or growth.

Research Problem

Despite the benefits of international trade, an overreliance on oil as its primary export has led Saudi Arabia to become vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market, impacting its overall trade balance and economic growth. The research will seek to understand how the pattern of international trade affects the level of economic development or growth in Saudi Arabia and explore possible ways to mitigate risks and boost economic prospects.

Research Questions

1. How has Saudi Arabia’s pattern of international trade evolved over time and in response to global economic shifts?
2. What is the relationship between Saudi Arabia’s reliance on oil exports and its overall economic growth and development?
3. How can Saudi Arabia diversify its international trade relations to ensure more balanced and sustainable trade patterns for overall economic growth?
4. How do international trade policies and agreements affect Saudi Arabia’s trade relations with its global partners?

Hypothesis

The overreliance on oil exports for economic growth in Saudi Arabia may result in an imbalanced pattern of international trade, which could lead to adverse effects on the country’s overall economic development. Diversifying Saudi Arabia’s trade relations and export portfolio could mitigate risks associated with global market fluctuations and foster more sustained and balanced economic growth.

Methodology

To examine the link between Saudi Arabia’s pattern of international trade and its level of economic development, this study will employ a mixed-methods approach, comprising quantitative and qualitative analyses. Quantitative data on Saudi Arabia’s trade patterns, export products, and economic indicators will be collected through government reports, international trade databases, and statistical tools. This data will be analyzed to explore trends and correlations between trade patterns and economic development.

In addition, the study will conduct a comparative analysis of other countries with similar resource endowments, particularly in the Middle East, to understand how they have approached international trade relations and the impact on their economic development. Qualitative data will be collected through policy reviews, examining global trade relations, agreements, and frameworks involving Saudi Arabia.

In summary, this study aims to unravel the relationship between Saudi Arabia’s international trade patterns and its economic growth and development. Understanding these dynamics is crucial in positioning Saudi Arabia to better harness the power of international trade for sustainable economic progress.