Saudi Arabia strengthens partnership with European Union

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Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Bin Abdullah met with European Union President Charles Michel in Brussels.
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal Bin Farhan Bin Abdullah met with European Union President Charles Michel in Brussels.

Brussels, 18 February 2023 (TDI): The Foreign Minister of Saudi Arabia, Faisal Bin Farhan Bin Abdullah met with European Union (EU), President Charles Michel in Brussels.

During the meeting, they reviewed the historical relations and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the European Union countries.
They also discussed ways to enhance and develop cooperation in various fields.  The leaders covered various issues during the meeting, including regional security and economic cooperation.
They also examined the measures to tackle climate change. The meeting emphasized the importance of the two regions’ alliance and the need for continuing cooperation as Saudi Arabia implements its ambitious Vision 2030 reform agenda

European Union and Saudi Arabia Ties

The European Union and Saudi Arabia have had a long-standing connection since the 1970s. Shared interests in energy security, regional stability, and economic cooperation form the basis of the relationship.

Over the years, the two sides have worked on various subjects, including trade, investment, and cultural interaction.

The European Union is one of Saudi Arabia’s most important trading partners, with bilateral trade expected to reach $41 billion by 2022.

Also, the two parties have ratified several significant accords, including the 2004-signed Cooperation Agreement on Partnership and Development, which aims to advance political communication, economic collaboration, and cultural interchange.

During a recent meeting in Brussels, Prince Faisal and Charles Michel discussed the importance of the EU in supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan.

Also Read: Saudi Arabia, EU collaborate to promote common objectives

They emphasized the importance of ongoing cooperation and conversation to keep the relationship between the two regions robust and beneficial.

The EU has a crucial role in assisting Saudi Arabia’s attempts to promote sustainable development and diversify its economy as it moves on with its Vision 2030 plan.

The EU has implemented several economic and social development initiatives in Saudi Arabia to promote Vision 2030. The EU-Saudi Arabia Partnership for Sustainable Development supports renewable energy, education, and healthcare collaboration.

Meeting of Think Tanks and Research Centers

During his visit, Foreign Minister Faisal also met with members of think tanks and research centers. During the meeting, they reviews about the significance of the strategic ties between Saudi Arabia and the European Union.

They discussed the common concerns, Saudi Arabia’s perspectives. The Kingdom’s efforts to find a peaceful solution to the Russian-Ukrainian conflict.

The panel also examined the Kingdom’s Vision 2030’s most significant initiatives and projects targeted at attaining sustainable development goals to combat climate change on a regional and worldwide scale.

The meeting touched on the Kingdom’s proposal to host the World Expo 2030, which aspires to provide a bright future for people and future generations. The Saudi Foreign Minister also met with many Heads of States and Foreign Ministers to discuss bilateral relations.