Source Credit: Arab News
February 11, 2025, the Saudi Cabinet, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, met to discuss and adopt a number of important agreements that will strengthen the Kingdom's ties with other countries. The meeting reaffirmed Saudi Arabia's role as a leader in regional stability and development while highlighting its dedication to tackling global issues.
Key Highlights from the Cabinet Meeting
Developments in the Region
The Cabinet talked about recent geopolitical events, such as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's phone conversations with Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, the president of the United Arab Emirates, and King Abdullah of Jordan. The ministers reiterated the Kingdom's commitment to a two-state solution and peaceful coexistence for long-term peace in the region, and they repeated their strong stance against Israeli statements calling for the relocation of Palestinians.
Global Collaborations
A number of agreements to improve Saudi Arabia's international ties were authorized by the Cabinet:
- Security Cooperation: To combat drug trafficking, an agreement was made with Jordan.
- Diplomatic Relations: For bearers of diplomatic, special, and official passports, a mutual visa exemption agreement with Solomon Islands was reached.
- Economic Agreements: A commercial cooperation deal with the Maldives was approved, while negotiations for a political consultations memorandum with Armenia were authorized.
- Cultural and Scientific Partnerships: The UK Meteorological Office and Morocco's Hassan II Mosque Foundation signed a memorandum of understanding to promote traditional arts, and the two organizations also agreed to cooperate in meteorology.
Domestic development
The Cabinet applauded continuous efforts to diversify the economy, including the establishment of the King Salman Automobile Manufacturing Complex. It is anticipated that this initiative will help the National Industry and Logistics Development Program and increase the economic contribution of the non-oil sector. The executive plan for the Financial Sustainability Program was also completed, and it received recognition for increasing spending efficiency and creating new sources of income.
Acknowledgment of Success
In honor of Saudi Arabia's efforts to fight corruption and advance transparency, the ministers recognized the country's election to the Executive Committee of the International Association of Anti-Corruption Authorities. They added that the Kingdom's top spot on the G20 security index demonstrates its leadership in maintaining peace and prosperity.
Initiatives for Infrastructure
Additionally, the Cabinet approved a deal with Egypt to improve passenger transportation and maritime connections in the Gulf of Aqaba. To strengthen financial cooperation, a partnership between the central banks of Saudi Arabia and Turkey was approved.
The last meeting of the Saudi Cabinet reaffirms the Kingdom's commitment to stability and economic diversification while highlighting its proactive response to regional and global concerns. Saudi Arabia hopes to improve its international reputation and favorably impact regional economic projects by solidifying alliances in a number of fields.
