The Ministry of Investment recently participated in an economic forum involving ASEAN countries, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), and the People’s Republic of China. This significant event took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from May 27 to May 29, coinciding with the GCC-ASEAN and GCC-ASEAN-China summits. The participation aimed to elevate Saudi Arabia’s presence at international forums, showcasing the country’s evolving investment landscape across various sectors and presenting its strategic initiatives in line with Vision 2030.
On the first day of the forum, the Ministry organized a session titled “Enhancing Investments between the GCC, ASEAN, and China.” This initiative underscored Saudi Arabia’s commitment to refining its investment environment and forging strategic partnerships. The session highlighted a range of initiatives, including the “Jusoor” (Bridges) programme, the Regional Headquarters Programme, and the “Invest in Saudi Arabia” initiative. Esteemed guests attended, including Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, Ren Gongping, President of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade (CCPIT), and other high-profile officials from both Saudi Arabia and China.
On the second day, Saja Al-Sayed, the Ministry’s International Relations Deputy, participated in a panel discussion entitled “Strengthening Investments between ASEAN Nations, Gulf States, and China.” The discussion focused on the alignment between Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and China’s Belt and Road Initiative, both considered crucial for boosting strategic partnerships across infrastructure development, market connectivity, industrial integration, and supply chain synergy. Al-Sayed emphasized the Kingdom’s view of ASEAN nations and China as vital partners in this journey toward sustainable economic growth. She also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s attractive investment climate, which has been enhanced by regulatory developments and the increasing footprint of Saudi companies in global markets, paying particular attention to the Kingdom’s commitment to artificial intelligence through innovative initiatives.
The final day featured a Saudi-Malaysian roundtable meeting held at the Malaysian Ministry of Investment, Trade, and Industry. Over 100 representatives from both governmental and private sectors convened to discuss partnership opportunities in priority sectors. Various Saudi investment initiatives were presented, including Invest in Saudi Arabia, Jusoor, the Regional Headquarters Programme, and the National Industrial Strategy. The discussions were aimed at strengthening bilateral investment cooperation and achieving the targets set by Vision 2030.
In summary, the forum served as a platform for Saudi Arabia to bolster its investment ties with prominent Asian markets and reinforce its strategic partnerships within the ASEAN framework. By showcasing its investment initiatives and regulatory enhancements, the Kingdom positions itself as a favorable destination for international investors, particularly in sectors poised for growth under the overarching goals of Vision 2030. The emphasis on collaborations through initiatives like the Belt and Road underscores the mutual benefits of fostering economic ties in an increasingly interconnected global landscape.
