RIYADH, 27 February 2005 — German Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder and Riyadh Governor Prince Salman will open today an exhibition depicting 75 years of Saudi-German relations. The event is jointly organized by the German Embassy and Al-Turath Foundation.
The chancellor’s visit to Saudi Arabia is part of his swing through the GCC states and Yemen. He will exchange views with Saudi officials on various issues in the region, mainly the latest developments in Iraq and Lebanon.
Germany is believed to play an essential role in providing political and technical advice needed for reformations in different countries of the Middle East. Germany through GTZ, one of its leading companies, recently provided specialized assistance to the authorities organizing and handling the first municipal elections in Saudi Arabia.
Other areas of cooperation between the two countries relate to security. Germany is keen to continue working with countries in the region on fighting terrorism.
“This exhibition reflects the long-standing and strong relationship between the two countries. It commemorates the Friendship Treaty signed in Cairo in 1929 between Von Hindenbourg, president of the German Reich at the time and the envoys of King Abdul Aziz Al-Saud,” said Gerhard Schrombgens, German ambassador to Saudi Arabia.
“We are quite happy and optimistic about the outcome of this occasion; we believe we will have very positive feedback from people and businesses in both countries. This event will be followed by cultural activities for further and better understanding among intellectuals and opinionmakers in Germany and Saudi Arabia,” said the ambassador.
“We highly appreciate the support and the efforts exerted by the Riyadh Chamber of Commerce & Industry and Al-Turath Foundation who availed the opportunity for the success of the exhibition,” the ambassador said.
