Saudi Arabia Hosts WEF Meeting On Collaboration, Growth, Under Crown Prince's Patronage

Riyadh is set to host a pivotal event under the auspices of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The World Economic Forum (WEF) Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development will take place on 28 – 29 April, drawing more than 1000 leaders from various sectors worldwide. This gathering aims to tackle pressing global development challenges through enhanced international cooperation.

The Special Meeting in Riyadh will serve as a platform for heads of state, government officials, and thought leaders from the public and private sectors, alongside representatives from international organizations, academic institutions, and non-government organizations (NGOs). The agenda is focused on stimulating productive dialogues to foster global collaboration and devise sustainable solutions to address social and economic disparities exacerbated by the pandemic.

Three critical areas will be the focus of discussions at the WEF Special Meeting: Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development. Under Global Collaboration, participants will seek ways to navigate geopolitical upheavals and humanitarian crises, particularly in the Middle East and Eastern Europe. The aim is to encourage inclusive dialogues between the Global South and North.

In terms of Growth, the meeting will delve into how transformation, innovation, and economic policymaking can contribute to creating inclusive growth models. This includes exploring new investment frameworks and addressing inequalities between developed and developing economies.

Energy for Development discussions will concentrate on achieving a net-zero future through an inclusive global energy transition. This theme underscores the urgent need for sustainable energy solutions that encompass all nations.

The selection of Riyadh as the venue for this Special Meeting highlights Saudi Arabia's significant role in fostering international cooperation. The Kingdom's active participation in WEF's Annual Meetings in Davos has paved the way for this collaboration. Moreover, since the launch of Saudi Vision 2030, Riyadh has positioned itself as a global hub for thought leadership, innovation, and impactful solutions.

The agenda for the two-day event is designed to revive the spirit of cooperation and collaboration among global leaders. It includes panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities aimed at forging a path towards a resilient, sustainable, and equitable world.

This Special Meeting not only reinforces the technical and policymaking collaboration between Saudi Arabia and the World Economic Forum but also represents a unique convergence of global leaders committed to addressing today’s most pressing challenges. The choice of Riyadh underscores the city's emerging status as a global capital capable of hosting significant international events that aim to shape a better future.

With inputs from SPA