Saudi Arabia, Iraq agree to boost cooperation on security, trade and investment

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Several agreements signed during talks with Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi. (SPA)
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Updated 01 April 2021
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Saudi Arabia, Iraq agree to boost cooperation on security, trade and investment

  • The two leaders discussed security concerns and agreed to continue coordinating in confronting extremism and terrorism
  • Several agreements were signed during the talks, including the creation of a joint Saudi-Iraqi fund worth $3 billion

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iraqi Prime Minister Mustafa Al-Kadhimi agreed Wednesday on the need for their countries to continue coordinating in confronting extremism and terrorism. 
Meeting at the Yamamah Palace in Riyadh, the two leaders also agreed to boost economic cooperation, starting with the creation of a joint Saudi-Iraqi fund worth $3 billion. 

A joint statement issued after the meeting described the fund "as a contribution from the Kingdom to promote investment in economic fields in Iraq to benefit both their economies."

The two neighbors also agreed to continue cooperation within the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and with full commitment to the requirements of the OPEC+ agreement.

Al-Kadhimi arrived in Riyadh on Wednesday for the visit on the invitation of King Salman.
As he disembarked the plane, 21 rounds of artillery were fired to welcome him, while Saudi jets drew the Iraqi flag in the skies above.
Both countries’ national anthems were played, and then Al-Kadhimi reviewed the honor guard. A number of Saudi officials, ministers and leaders of military sectors were present at the welcoming reception.
The crown prince welcomed the official delegation accompanying the prime minister, including Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein, as well as the ministers of finance, interior, oil, agriculture and housing.
The crown prince and the prime minister then headed to the Royal Court at Al-Yamamah Palace in a motorcade.
During the talks, they “exchanged views on regional and international issues of concern to both countries, in a way that contributes to supporting and enhancing security and stability in the region and the world,” a joint statement said.
The two sides praised the outcomes of Al-Kadhimi’s video call with King Salman last week where they stressed the importance of strengthening relations between the Kingdom and Iraq and enhancing the work of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council.
The crown prince and the prime minister said they would continue to develop cooperation in various fields, especially political, security, military, commercial, investment, cultural and tourism.
Saudi Arabia said it would continue to support Iraq and the Global Coalition to remove the remnants of Daesh from the country. They also agreed on the importance of joint cooperation in securing the safety of their borders.
They agreed to complete the electrical interconnection project and to accelerate cooperation in the petroleum field, within the scope of the OPEC+ agreement to ensure the stability of global oil markets.
Iraq thanked the Kingdom for its efforts toward rebuilding the country and for its support in confronting the COVID-19 pandemic. Baghdad also commended the newly announced Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative that will be launched soon and said it was ready to support the Kingdom.
Bilateral agreements were signed including agreements to avoid double taxation, for cooperation in the field of development planning for economic diversification and private sector development, and on financing Saudi exports.
An agreement was signed between the Iraqi Media Network and the Saudi Radio and Television Authority, and a cooperation agreement was signed in the field of culture.
Later, Al-Kadhimi was accompanied by Prince Mohammed on a tour of Diriyah’s Al-Turaif district. 
Ahead of his arrival, Al-Kadhimi said the visit was “aimed at consolidating the distinguished relations between our two brotherly countries, and establishing prospects for fraternal cooperation between the countries of the region, in a way that serves our peoples, achieves stability, and dedicates values ​​of building and integration, based on the common things that unite us.”
Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan held a meeting with Hussein separately to discuss bilateral relations and ways to enhance them in various fields.
Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Al-Jadaan met with his Iraqi counterpart Ali Allawi in Riyadh, to review relations and discuss issues of common interest.
Bilateral meetings were also held between the ministers of housing of both countries and the ministers of agriculture, within the framework of the Saudi-Iraqi Coordination Council.




PM Al-Kadhimi, left), is seen off at Riyadh's King Khalid International Airport by Saudi officials led by Riyadh region Gov. Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz. (SPA)

Al-Kadhimi also met with Saudi minister of investment Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, the chairman of Saudi Chambers Ajlan Al-Ajlan and several Saudi businessmen and discussed strengthening Saudi private sector investments in Iraq.
Al-Khadimi promised to facilitate investment opportunities by eliminating the obstacles facing businessmen.
Al-Falih assured Al-Khadimi that King Salman’s government "continues, without any hesitation, to support the Saudi private sector’s investment in Iraq.

After the flurry of meetings, Al-Kadhimi left the Saudi capital and was seen off at the King Khalid International Airport by a number of officials led by the governor of Riyadh region, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Abdulaziz.


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

  • 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

Updated 04 May 2025
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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)
Updated 04 May 2025
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Saudi deputy minister receives Pakistan’s ambassador

  • 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.

 


Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

Updated 04 May 2025
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Iraqi president invites King Salman to upcoming Arab summits in Baghdad

  • Invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan by Iraqi counterpart

RIYADH: King Salman received an official invitation from Iraqi President Abdullatif Jamal Rashid on Sunday to attend the 34th regular session of the Arab League Council at the summit level, as well as the fifth Arab Economic and Social Development Summit, both set to be hosted by Iraq later this month.

The invitation was delivered to Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan during a meeting in Riyadh with Iraqi Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Fuad Mohammed Hussein, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The two officials discussed ties between the two countries and reviewed key regional and international developments.

The meeting was also attended by Saud Al-Sati, Undersecretary of the Ministry for Political Affairs.


Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

Event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development.
Updated 04 May 2025
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Riyadh conference discusses future of occupational health

  • Minister launches initiatives to enhance Kingdom’s workplace safety

RIYADH: The seventh Global Occupational Safety and Health Conference opened in Riyadh on Sunday under the theme “The Future of Occupational Safety and Health.”

The three-day event was inaugurated by Ahmed Al-Rajhi, minister of human resources and social development and chairman of the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.

Al-Rajhi launched initiatives to enhance Saudi Arabia’s occupational safety and health system, including the establishment of the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, the National Compliance and Excellence Incentives Program, and the Occupational Safety and Health Standards Guide.

Al-Rajhi said that work-related deaths in Saudi Arabia have dropped to less than one per 100,000 workers since the council’s establishment.

Meanwhile, the number of locals in occupational safety and health roles has risen by 130 percent, reaching more than 29,000 by the end of 2024, compared with 2022.

Al-Rajhi also highlighted improvements in safety compliance and automation. “The compliance rate with safety standards reached 72 percent by the end of 2024, and the automation of safety procedures exceeded 62 percent, up from 30 percent in 2020.”

The conference draws high-ranking officials, experts and specialists from Saudi Arabia and worldwide to discuss the future of occupational safety and health, as well as the challenges and opportunities in global labor markets.

It covers six key themes: workplace sustainability; digitization and technology in occupational safety; the economics of safety; the future of research and innovation; emerging challenges; and human behavior and safety culture.

This focus reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to improving work environments and achieving professional standards in line with global best practices, a key goal of Saudi Vision 2030.

The event highlights national efforts, displays modern technical trends, supports specialized research, and promotes the Kingdom’s legislative framework to international standards, contributing to the success of major national projects.

Al-Rajhi referred to international reports on workplace challenges. “International reports highlight the serious challenges facing work environments globally. Approximately 3 million worker deaths are recorded each year due to accidents and occupational diseases.”

He said about “395 million non-fatal work injuries occur annually. Statistics show 23 million injuries and 19,000 deaths from heat stress, and 15 percent of workers globally suffer from mental disorders related to stressful work environments.”

The conference program includes specialized scientific sessions, 60 workshops, 20 dialogue sessions, and the Global Occupational Safety and Health Hackathon, where 30 innovative projects are being presented.

An accompanying exhibition features local and international organizations, with several significant agreements expected and new initiatives to advance the Kingdom’s occupational safety system.

The ministry also emphasized the Kingdom’s commitment to securing a healthy work environment and ensuring worker safety, which enhances labor market competitiveness and overall quality of life.

Al-Rajhi said: “In line with Vision 2030, we aim to make work environments safer, higher quality, and more attractive. This supports employee well-being, boosts labor market competitiveness, and fosters a culture of safety and sustainability. Therefore, the Kingdom established the National Council for Occupational Safety and Health.”

The General Organization for Social Insurance launched a directory for occupational safety and health standards at the conference, serving as a unified reference for specialists, establishments, and relevant entities in the Kingdom.

This initiative aims to enhance safety and health standards while protecting workers from occupational hazards, as part of its broader strategy.

Based on international best practices, the directory provides clear preventive standards to help reduce injuries and hazards.

It covers more than 4,500 standards in six main sectors: public industries; construction; agriculture; maritime activities; transport; and mining. It also classifies more than 70 sectors based on the national directory of economic activities.