The Council of Ministers in Saudi Arabia reaffirmed the country’s commitment to regional and global security and stability during a session chaired by Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Tuesday. The Cabinet approved several key initiatives, including the establishment of two marine reserves and the Geographical Indications Protection System, aimed at promoting conservation and economic development.
At the session, the Crown Prince updated the Cabinet on his recent meeting with the King of Malaysia, Sultan Ibrahim, discussing ways to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors. The Cabinet’s decisions reflect the Kingdom’s ongoing efforts to diversify its economy and promote sustainable development, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
Enhancing Hajj and Umrah Services
The Cabinet reviewed the state’s efforts to improve services for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, praising Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman’s address at the fifth edition of the Hajj Conference and Exhibition. The King’s speech reaffirmed the Kingdom’s commitment to serving the Two Holy Mosques and their visitors, according to the Minister of State, Cabinet Member for Shoura Council Affairs, and Acting Minister of Media, Issam bin Saad bin Saeed.
The King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah) was commended for organizing the inaugural History of Hajj and the Two Holy Mosques forum, highlighting the Kingdom’s historical efforts to serve the Two Holy Mosques. This initiative underscores the Kingdom’s leadership in preserving its cultural and religious heritage.
Promoting Health and Education
The Cabinet highlighted the Kingdom’s achievement in leading the Eastern Mediterranean and North Africa region with 16 cities approved as healthy by the World Health Organization. This accomplishment reflects the Kingdom’s commitment to prioritizing human health in its development plans, in line with the Quality of Life Program and the Health Sector Transformation Program under Saudi Vision 2030.
The Cabinet also reviewed the findings of a World Bank report on improving educational quality in the Kingdom. The report’s results indicate the state’s commitment to education as a fundamental pillar for human capability development and sustainable economic growth, according to the ministry.
International Cooperation
The Cabinet authorized several agreements and memoranda of understanding with international partners, including Nigeria and Bahrain, to enhance cooperation in culture, education, and energy. These agreements aim to promote mutual understanding and collaboration between Saudi Arabia and its international partners.
A memorandum of understanding was also approved between the Saudi Ministry of Economy and Planning and the Spanish Ministry of Economy, Commerce, and Business to foster economic cooperation. Additionally, the Cabinet approved a charter for establishing the Global Water Organization, reflecting the Kingdom’s commitment to addressing global water challenges.
As the Kingdom continues to implement its Vision 2030, the next steps are expected to focus on the implementation of these approved initiatives. The outcomes of these efforts will likely be influenced by the level of international cooperation and the Kingdom’s ability to address its development challenges. The progress of these initiatives is expected to be monitored closely in the coming months.
