Minister of Economy and Planning Faisal bin Fadhil Alibrahim stressed that Saudi Arabia has created several development opportunities and become a global platform for international discussions in the domain.
Speaking at the World Economic Forum's (WEF) special meeting, held here under the theme "Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development", Alibrahim said: "Since the launch of the Saudi Vision in 2016, the Kingdom, under the directives and leadership of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and befitting its international responsibility, has continued to address the biggest global social, economic, and humanitarian challenges. Today, we gather at a time when the world is facing many changes, with our economies, societies, and industries facing unprecedented challenges and vast opportunities."
He said that the special meeting, which comes at a timely and important moment, addresses three main topics that are integral to long-term progress and that require full attention: international cooperation, growth, and energy for development.
Alibrahim added that growth has become an urgent necessity, and “we must participate in creating a global economy that works for everyone, where every country has the opportunity to thrive, regardless of its wealth or status, which requires us to invest in human capital”.
He reiterated that energy is important to economies, and as such, must be produced and consumed responsibly.
“We cannot allow a world where some have access to energy while others do not, and we must invest in clean and renewable energy sources and ensure fair access to energy,” he said.
He added that a turning point for human development calls for cultural and ideological convergence, “as we are all in the same boat, and we must cooperate to achieve peace and prosperity”.
Alibrahim underscored the need to “take advantage of this meeting to unleash our collective potential, commit to our shared responsibilities, stimulate international cooperation, and launch new engines of growth that empower future generations”.