Saudi Arabia And China Collaborate On Logistics And Air Cargo Initiatives

Abdulaziz bin Abdullah Al-Duailej, President of the General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), met with Henan Province Vice Governor Sun Shougang in Riyadh. The meeting aimed to boost investments between Saudi Arabia and China. Discussions focused on strengthening economic ties and developing quality investments for leading companies. They also explored how the private sector could seize available opportunities.

A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between Saudia Cargo and China Henan Aviation Group during the meeting. This agreement focuses on strategic cooperation within the air-cargo center project via the Air Silk Road. It aims to enhance collaboration in sustainability, cross-border e-commerce, and digital shipping operations through innovative logistics services.

The GACA organised a Saudi-Chinese roundtable to explore cooperation in logistics zones and air-cargo areas. The event included Zhang Mingchao, Chairman of China Henan Aviation Group, along with representatives from national carriers and logistics firms. Several government entities were present, such as the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Investment, and Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services.

The meeting delved into enhancing cooperation in civil aviation and strengthening economic links between Saudi Arabia and China. It focused on improving quality investments and empowering the private sector to leverage opportunities in logistics. The discussions also highlighted benefiting from Chinese expertise in air cargo and logistics zones.

The Chinese delegation visited several key locations to observe operational capabilities. They toured the Special Integrated Logistics Zone in Riyadh and cargo zones at King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah. The delegation examined cargo-handling facilities, e-commerce shipments, and digital mechanisms used there.

Additionally, they visited King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh. Here, they reviewed services at its Airport Operations Control Center (AOCC), commercial areas, and duty-free store offerings. These visits provided insights into Saudi Arabia's advanced logistics infrastructure.

The discussions aligned with Vision 2030 objectives and the Saudi Aviation Strategy to develop Saudi-Chinese air transportation further. By fostering strategic partnerships, both nations aim to enhance their economic collaboration significantly.

With inputs from SPA