RABIGH: The 27th session of the Council for International Understanding (CIU), which is being held at King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC), yesterday discussed the global financial crisis and how to stimulate economic growth across the world.
The CIU conference, which is chaired by former German Chancellor Helmut Schmidt, who is honorary president of the council, also discussed ways to ensure enough energy supply and promote world peace and stability, an official statement said.
The CIU meeting, which is being held for the first time in Saudi Arabia, will end today when a press conference will be held to announce its resolutions. “The holding of CIU meeting in Saudi Arabia is very important in light of the reputation the Kingdom has in the comity of nations,” Schmidt said. He also praised Riyadh’s efforts to establish peace in the Middle East and other parts of the world.
The former German chancellor also commended the Saudi government for its endeavors to develop its economy. “It’s quite visible to all those who visit the Kingdom. The King Abdullah Economic City in Rabigh is the latest example for it,” he said.
Abdul Aziz Al-Quraishi, former governor of Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency, said the Kingdom’s hosting of the conference reflects its desire to play an effective role in the world and take part in efforts to find solutions to the world’s pressing problems.
Amr Al-Dabbagh, governor of Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority, highlighted CIU’s achievements over the past years in boosting peace and stability.
Participants of the conference yesterday visited the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology (KAUST) in Thuwal, 90 km north of Jeddah. The delegation included former presidents and ministers from 20 countries.
Nathmi Al-Nasr, executive vice president of KAUST, said the visitors were briefed on the vision and objectives of KAUST.
