Saudi Arabia, Australia discuss renewable energy cooperation ahead of COP31

Saudi Minister of Energy Abdulaziz bin Salman and Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources met with Australian Minister for Climate Change and Energy Chris Bowen in Jeddah to discuss opportunities for cooperation in climate action, as well as joint efforts in preparation for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31), scheduled for November this year in Turkey.

The meeting addressed ways to contribute to achieving the goals and principles of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change and the Paris Agreement, aiming for inclusive, balanced, and practical outcomes that consider the national circumstances of member states.

Both sides reviewed Saudi Arabia’s initiatives and efforts to address the impacts of climate change, including expanding the use of renewable energy sources, managing, reducing, and removing emissions through the Saudi Green Initiative, as well as implementing the circular carbon economy approach and related technologies, in addition to several national and regional programs and initiatives.

The visit included a tour of the Shuaibah solar power project, one of the largest projects under the National Renewable Energy Program, as well as a visit to Historic Jeddah, a major cultural and tourist destination, and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) to learn about its research environment and academic programs in science, engineering, and biotechnology.