Makkah Gov. Prince Mishaal bin Abdullah opened the three-day Jeddah Economic Forum at Jeddah Hilton on Tuesday, urging greater youth participation in national planning and development.

The forum is expected to address major economic and social issues facing Saudi Arabia, including unemployment among its young population.

In his keynote speech, Prince Mishaal emphasized the future role of youth in taking the Kingdom to new heights of progress and prosperity. Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah and Crown Prince Salman have given the youth greater opportunities through education and training, he said.

More than 1,000 delegates including a large number of youth attended the opening session. Prince Sultan bin Salman, president of the Saudi Commission for Tourism and Antiquities, and Commerce and Industry Minister Tawfik Al-Rabiah were also present. Prince Mishaal highlighted the strength of Saudi economy and the Kingdom’s leading position in the world being a G-20 member. “Jeddah is a very attractive place for investment,” the governor said. He asked the participants to find ways for creating jobs for Saudi youth.

Al-Rabiah said his ministry would facilitate the issuance of commercial registration electronically within three months. “We will also facilitate registration of trade marks. We plan to issue about 16,000 trade marks next year.” Al-Rabiah also referred to his ministry’s efforts to promote Saudi exports by taking part in international exhibitions. “We will take part in 20 exhibitions next year.”

Saleh Kamil, president of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the forum would focus on one of the most important issues (unemployment) facing the society.