Riyadh, December 26, 2023, The Seventh Ministerial Meeting of the Saudi-Japan Vision 2030 was convened in Riyadh on Monday, presided over by the Saudi Minister of Investment, Eng. Khalid bin Abdulaziz Al-Falih, the Japanese Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), Ken Saito, and the Japanese Vice-Minister for Foreign Affairs, Fukazawa Yoichi. The meeting drew the participation of dignitaries, officials, and representatives from various government sectors of both nations to explore ways of enhancing the strategic partnership.
In his opening remarks, Al-Falih underscored the significance of the meeting as the inaugural ministerial gathering following the launch of the second chapter of the vision's journey by the leaders of both countries. He highlighted that the meeting would evaluate key accomplishments of the sub-groups within the joint vision, focusing on identifying new and sustainable areas of cooperation. Al-Falih noted that since its initiation in 2016, the Saudi-Japanese Vision 2030 has significantly contributed to advancing the partnership.
At the meeting's conclusion, various joint initiatives and work programs were formalized through the signing of minutes. Simultaneously, the Saudi-Japan Investment Forum took place, attended by dignitaries and over 400 representatives from both nations' public and private sectors.
The forum witnessed the signing of 13 agreements and memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with Japanese entities and companies spanning sectors such as water, financial services, communications, information technology, energy, and healthcare. Noteworthy projects in construction technology, tourism, and entertainment were also announced.
The forum featured presentations on economic cities and special zones, public-private partnerships, Japanese cooperation in the Middle East, and the contributions of the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) to the Saudi-Japanese Vision 2030. Dialogue sessions explored potential collaborations in healthcare and water sectors, the role of technology and innovation in enhancing performance, and opportunities for partnerships in mega projects, including NEOM, the Red Sea, and Qiddiya. The discussions concluded with an emphasis on the significance of innovation in the space sector.
