Saudi Arabia, Italy strengthen ties at business forum

Saudi Arabia, Italy strengthen ties at business forum
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As the forum concluded, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to stronger cooperation, leveraging shared strengths to navigate global challenges. (AN photo)
Saudi Arabia, Italy strengthen ties at business forum
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As the forum concluded, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to stronger cooperation, leveraging shared strengths to navigate global challenges. (AN photo)
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Updated 30 April 2025
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Saudi Arabia, Italy strengthen ties at business forum

Saudi Arabia, Italy strengthen ties at business forum
  • Discussions focus on energy transition, investment opportunities, sports-driven economic growth

Turin: The Saudi-Italian Business Forum concluded on Wednesday in Turin, bringing together officials, business leaders and experts from both countries.

Cristina Tumiatti, vice president of Piccola Industria Unione Industriali Torino, opened the third day of the forum with a speech on industrial excellence.

“Saudi Arabia represents a market of extraordinary strategic potential. Its geographic position and dynamic economic environment make it a natural hub for businesses,” she said.

Tumiatti shared her personal expereinces in the Kingdom and praised its rapid transformation: “I have witnessed firsthand the progress and openness that characterize the Saudi business environment.”

She also emphasized Italy’s focus on Middle East partnerships: “Our initiatives promote digital ecological manufacturing and investments aimed specifically at companies entering the Saudi market.”

Waleed Al-Rubaie, general manager of petrochemicals at the Ministry of Investment, addressed global economic challenges and stressed the need for international cooperation.

“We come together at a time where the world is facing many challenges, and we can only overcome these by working together,” he said.

Al-Rubaie reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s green commitment: “We are dedicated to balancing energy availability with sustainability through our new green initiatives.”

His remarks underscored the energy sector’s shift toward sustainability as key to tackling climate change and ensuring long-term economic resilience.

Fahad Al-Subaie, director of clubs investment at the Ministry of Sports, spoke about the link between sports and economic development.

“We are targeting a 3 percent GDP contribution by 2030, aiming to create around 200,000 jobs,” he said.

He highlighted major investments since 2018, including the Newcastle acquisition and Formula One partnerships.

“These initiatives are not just about sports; they are about creating opportunities and driving economic growth,” he added, noting their impact on tourism and jobs.

Al-Subaie also pointed to Saudi Arabia’s global ambitions: “Our successful hosting of the 2024 World Cup is a testament to our commitment, as we are the first nation to achieve this with the highest attendance in history.”

Marco Osnato, president of the Bilateral Friendship Section UIP Italy-Saudi Arabia, highlighted the strengthening ties between the two countries.

“Under the leadership of Prime Minister Meloni, Italy and Saudi Arabia are becoming strategic partners. This partnership is reflected in our growing economic relations,” he said.

He stressed the role of political dialogue in boosting economic ties: “Frequent visits and agreements between our nations serve to solidify our commitment to mutual growth.”

Osnato added: “Italy is well-positioned to become a key player in the hydrogen supply chain,” pointing to shared goals in energy transition and sustainability.

Kamel Al-Munajjed, chairman of the Saudi-Italian Business Council, reaffirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to Italy. “This is the largest Saudi business mission to ever visit Italy, reflecting our serious commitment to collaboration,” he said.

Al-Munajjed led a delegation of nearly 70 Saudi representatives, highlighting the forum’s importance in strengthening business ties.

Sara Al-Faiez, senior manager at the Saudi Investment Promotion Authority, Invest Saudi, presented the Kingdom’s investment landscape: “Our goal is to create an attractive investment environment through policy reforms and partnerships.”

She noted the Kingdom’s strategic location: “Saudi Arabia is a global hub, with 80 percent of the world’s population within a seven-hour flight.”

Al-Faiez highlighted strong investment opportunities, especially in sectors aligned with Vision 2030.

As the forum concluded, both nations reaffirmed their commitment to stronger cooperation, leveraging shared strengths to navigate global challenges.

Discussions and partnerships formed during the forum are expected to deliver mutual benefits as Saudi Arabia and Italy pursue new opportunities in a shifting global economy.


Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs

Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs
Updated 11 min 31 sec ago
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Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs

Thousands worldwide benefit from KSrelief medical programs
  • On Saturday, the organization also concluded its volunteer open-heart surgery and catheterization project in Dushanbe, Tajikistan

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief completed medical programs in Tajikistan, Turkiye, and Tanzania, in line with the organization’s aim to support injured people worldwide.

The Saudi Noor Campaign, which will conclude on May 6, is tackling blindness in Zanzibar, Tanzania.

The medical team examined 1,731 cases, assigned 198 prescription glasses, performed 60 operations and provided medication to 857 patients.

In Reyhanli district, Türkiye, KSrelief carried out a prosthetics and rehabilitation program.

With a team of 13 specialists, they fitted 36 individuals with prosthetics and 40 orthopedic splints.

On Saturday, the organization also concluded its volunteer open-heart surgery and catheterization project in Dushanbe, Tajikistan.

The team performed 133 open-heart catheterizations and 15 open-heart operations.

 


KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria

KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria
Updated 30 min 28 sec ago
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KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria

KSrelief continues humanitarian initiatives in Yemen and Syria

RIYADH: The Saudi aid agency KSrelief continues to launch volunteer programs throughout the Arab world to address humanitarian crises and improve the health of Yemeni and Syrian people.

In Damascus, the team completed three volunteer initiatives that supported hundreds with disaster response, administrative training, and psychosocial support for women and children. The program ran from April 26 to May 3.

In Yemen, meanwhile, KSrelief completed the first phase of an outreach vaccination campaign in the Aden governorate in collaboration with Yemen’s Minister of Public Health and Population Qasem Buhaibeh.

On Friday, the organization launched vocational training courses in Wadi Hadhramaut, Yemen, to improve the livelihood of locals and boost economic development.

The project targeted 1,500 people and focused on home appliance maintenance, carpentry, vehicle repair, men’s tailoring, beekeeping, plumbing, photography, and electricity and energy.

 


Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation

Saudi fashion event highlights retail trends, youth culture, and digital innovation
  • Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves

RIYADH: A Riyadh fashion seminar on Sunday brought together industry leaders and creatives to explore the future of Saudi Arabia’s fashion economy.

Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

Rafi Dikranian and Mohammed Bajbaa speak on “From Drops to Drives: Connecting with Communities,” exploring how culture, streetwear, and grassroots branding are reshaping consumer engagement. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

The agenda focused on three main themes: the evolution of fashion retail in the Kingdom; the role of cultural identity in building brands; and the rising importance of digital fashion and collaboration.

An awards ceremony honored the standout talents of this year’s cohort: APOA, Awaken, Bucketbox, Mona Al-Shebil, Noble & Fresh, Nora Al-Shaikh, Rebirth, Samar Nasraldin, The Untitled Project and USCITA.

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Hosted by Chalhoub Group at Lakum Art Space, the event featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and displays by 10 emerging Saudi designers from The Fashion Lab Cohort 2.

One discussion explored consumer behavior in Saudi Arabia, revealing that the local market continues to grow despite global slowdowns.

Saudi brands that blend cultural heritage with bold innovation, as featured in the latest Fashion Lab showcase. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Speakers noted that the increase in entertainment activities such as concerts and dining in the Kingdom in recent years has led to higher demand for fashion products because people are looking for ways to express themselves.

Retail experiences — both physical and digital — were emphasized as key to engaging Saudi consumers.

Michael Chalhoub, CEO of Chalhoub Group, delivers the opening keynote at The Fashion Seminar 2025, highlighting the importance of creativity and cross-sector collaboration in shaping the future of Saudi fashion. (AN photo by Waad Hussain)

Youth culture, streetwear and sports are shaping brand narratives, a panel heard. Speakers discussed how fashion is being used as a tool for cultural storytelling, with an emphasis on grassroots creativity and community building.

Another topic highlighted the power of collaboration between local and international brands. Panelists discussed the importance of long-term partnerships, manufacturing localization, and mentorship to bridge gaps in knowledge and infrastructure.

Speakers also addressed the future of digital fashion, including virtual design, retail innovation, and new marketing strategies targeting Gen Z.

Saudi Arabia’s growing role in shaping the regional and global fashion economy was a prominent theme of the discussions.

 

 


First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism
Updated 04 May 2025
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First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism

First Saudi-Maldives forum to tackle transparency, governance in tourism
  • Discussions aim to support sustainable development, promote safe tourism environment

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia — in partnership with the Maldives — is organizing the tourism sector’s inaugural Saudi-Maldives International Forum on Integrity, which is set to take place in the Maldives from May 6 to 7.

The forum is jointly organized by Saudi Arabia’s Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority, and the Maldives’ Anti-Corruption Commission, in cooperation with the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation.

It will cover key topics such as enhancing transparency and governance in the tourism sector, combating corruption, and boosting international partnerships and expertise exchange among member states and regional and international organizations.

The discussions aim to support sustainable development and promote a trustworthy and safe tourism environment, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The forum is expected to attract international participation from more than 40 countries and 10 regional and international organizations.

Attendees will include ministers, heads, and representatives of anti-corruption bodies from OIC member states, as well as key international organizations like the UN Office on Drugs and Crime, Interpol, the Global Operational Network of Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Authorities, and the UN Development Programme. Local and international experts will also take part.

Organizing the forum reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global efforts promoting transparency and accountability in tourism, according to the SPA.

The event highlights Saudi Arabia’s recognition of tourism as a key driver of sustainable development, in line with Vision 2030. It aims to build a thriving tourism sector, diversify national income sources, and stimulate economic growth.

 


Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

Waleed Elkhereiji (R) holds talks with Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh. (Supplied)
  • They discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas

RIYADH: Saudi Deputy Minister for Foreign Affairs Waleed Elkhereiji received Pakistan’s Ambassador to the Kingdom Ahmed Farooq in Riyadh on Sunday.

During the meeting, they discussed bilateral relations as well as prominent developments in regional and international arenas, the Foreign Ministry wrote on X.

Meanwhile, Saudi Deputy Minister for International Multilateral Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Rassi received EU Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Christophe Varno in Riyadh.