RIYADH, 4 March 2004 — Minister of Labor and Social Affairs Dr. Ali Al-Namlah blamed illegal manipulation of foreign workers in the Saudi market as one of the causes behind the Kingdom’s increasing unemployment.
Speaking at a conference whose theme was “Confronting Poverty: Problems and Solutions” at the King Faisal Charitable Foundation auditorium, the minister addressed a number of issues including unemployment.
“We are working to bring an end to the country’s widespread unemployment,” said Dr. Al-Namlah. “Efforts are also being made by the Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs to solve the problem citizens have with some loan companies which contribute to the spread of poverty; these companies have created extra burden for many of our citizens.”
Dr. Al-Namlah said his ministry had benefited from articles in the local press which had increased public awareness of the poverty fund.
