Riyadh, November 28, 2024 – In a significant development for the global camel industry, the Saudi Cabinet, during its session on November 19, 2024, officially approved a landmark headquarters agreement between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the International Camel Organization (ICO). This agreement further underscores Saudi Arabia's long-standing commitment to bolstering the camel sector, both domestically and on the international stage. It highlights the Kingdom's proactive efforts to position itself as a leader in the promotion, welfare, and global advancement of the camel industry.
The ICO, a key organization focused on the global camel economy, welcomed this decision with enthusiasm. In a statement issued by the ICO, Chairman Fahd bin Falah bin Hathleen expressed deep gratitude and appreciation for the Saudi Cabinet’s approval. He emphasized that this decision represents a pivotal moment in the organization’s ongoing mission to elevate the significance of camels and related industries worldwide.
Chairman Fahd bin Falah bin Hathleen remarked, "Over the years, the ICO has strived to establish effective strategies and policies that promote and support the global camel economy. Our efforts have focused on enhancing the development of rural and desert communities, preserving and celebrating camel-related heritage and culture, advancing scientific research, and fostering camel-based sports that continue to capture the attention of global audiences. Moreover, the ICO has worked tirelessly to organize international events, forge strategic partnerships with various global organizations, and prioritize the health and welfare of camels, alongside the regulation of their movement."
He went on to highlight the significance of the Saudi Cabinet's decision, stating, "This decision is a testament to the unwavering support and attention given by the government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques to the ICO's mission. It reinforces the role of Saudi Arabia as a global hub for the camel sector, paving the way for enhanced international cooperation and collaboration within this vital field."
Further emphasizing the alignment of this decision with broader national goals, Chairman Fahd bin Falah bin Hathleen underscored that the move is in perfect harmony with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, a transformative initiative aimed at fostering sustainable development, empowering key sectors, and bolstering international collaboration. This strategic alignment seeks to benefit camel breeders and owners on a local, regional, and global scale, ensuring that the camel sector continues to thrive.
This milestone also comes at a time when the world is celebrating the Year of Camels 2024 and the International Year of Camelids 2024—two initiatives designed to raise global awareness of the invaluable and often untapped potential of camels. These initiatives advocate for increased investment in the camel sector, emphasizing the importance of research, innovation, and capacity-building to unlock new opportunities for camel-related industries worldwide. The focus on sustainability and innovation is central to both Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the global efforts spearheaded by the ICO.
By hosting the ICO's headquarters, Saudi Arabia is poised to further its leadership role in promoting global dialogue, research, and development in the camel sector. This collaboration is expected to drive investments, inspire innovation, and encourage sustainable practices in camel breeding, healthcare, and related industries. As the Kingdom continues to prioritize the welfare of camels and the growth of camel-based industries, this agreement is seen as a vital step toward creating a more sustainable and prosperous future for camel communities across the world.
As the ICO prepares to embark on this new chapter in Riyadh, the focus on advancing camel-related industries and advocating for the welfare of camels is more important than ever. The ICO’s role as a catalyst for global cooperation and innovation will undoubtedly be strengthened, ensuring that camels and their contributions to societies and economies are recognized and celebrated on the world stage.