Riyadh Welcomes World Economic Forum, Signaling Global Interest in Vision 2030
Riyadh’s hosting of the World Economic Forum this week is a signal of the global business community’s growing interest in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 reform agenda, Luigi Di Maio, the EU special representative for the Gulf region, has said.
WEF Summit Focuses on Global Collaboration and Growth
WEF’s special meeting on global collaboration, growth, and energy for development took place in the Saudi capital on April 28-29 and was attended by 1,000 government, business, and civil society leaders.
Riyadh Chosen as Summit Venue Reflects Changing Global Perceptions
Di Maio, who is approaching his first anniversary in his role as EU special representative for the Gulf region, believes the choice of Riyadh as the summit venue reflects changing global perceptions of the Kingdom.
Concrete Progress Made in Bilateral Relations
In a wide-ranging interview, Di Maio lauded recent strides in bilateral relations between the EU and Saudi Arabia, highlighting the importance of practical solutions and agreements reached during the WEF summit.
EU-GCC Cooperation Strengthened
Di Maio emphasized the strong alignment between EU member states, European institutions, and GCC countries on key issues such as the two-state solution for the Middle East peace process, as well as common security interests.
Focus on Gaza Crisis and Humanitarian Aid
Cooperation on the Gaza crisis has brought the EU and the GCC closer together, with joint efforts on ceasefire negotiations, humanitarian aid access, and the ambition to establish an independent Palestinian state.
Inauguration of European Chamber of Commerce in Riyadh
Di Maio announced the forthcoming inauguration of a new European Chamber of Commerce in Riyadh, aimed at enhancing trade and cooperation between Saudi and European companies.
New Five-Year Multi-Entry Visa for GCC Citizens Entering EU
Di Maio highlighted the recent approval of a five-year multi-entry visa for Saudi, Bahraini, and Omani citizens entering the EU, aligning all GCC countries for longer visa validity.
Young Diplomats Program to Strengthen EU-GCC Relations
A new collaboration between the EU and the GCC will support young diplomats through a joint training program in Belgium, aimed at fostering closer ties and understanding between the two regions.