Riyadh: Saudi Arabia and UK Conclude Second Strategic Dialogue on International Development and Humanitarian Assistance
The Second Strategic Dialogue on International Development and Humanitarian Assistance between Saudi Arabia and the UK wrapped up with a high-level plenary session on Tuesday, marking a significant step towards collaboration between the two nations.
Key Recommendations and Agreements
During the dialogue, Aqeel Al-Ghamdi, the assistant general supervisor for planning and development at Saudi aid agency KSrelief, presented various recommendations by both sides. These included establishing a framework for cooperation to support the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and continuing discussions on these goals at the UN General Assembly.
Additionally, Saudi Arabia and the UK agreed to collaborate on projects in countries such as Bangladesh, Ukraine, and Sudan. This partnership will involve the exchange of expertise, skills, and research, as well as field visits. A memorandum of cooperation was also signed to enhance collaboration between the Saudi Fund for Development and UK authorities.
Participants and Roundtable Meetings
The two-day event, led by Abdullah Al-Rabeeah, the general supervisor of KSrelief, saw the participation of key figures from both countries. The Saudi delegation included Prince Khalid bin Bandar, the Kingdom’s ambassador to the UK, and Sultan Al-Murshid, the CEO of the Saudi Fund for Development. On the British side, Andrew Mitchell, the deputy foreign secretary and minister of state for development and Africa, and Neil Crompton, the British ambassador to Saudi Arabia, were present.
During the dialogue, representatives engaged in two roundtable meetings focusing on aid effectiveness, research impact, community resilience, and results-based management. The discussions aimed to enhance coordination among donors, strengthen partnership for sustainable development, and accelerate progress towards the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals.
Looking Ahead
The dialogue concluded with a shared commitment to effective aid and sustainable development, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in achieving peace and prosperity in fragile and high-risk countries. Participants explored opportunities for further collaboration and development of Saudi-British efforts towards common goals.