Lisbon, October 4, 2024—A high-level delegation from Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources recently embarked on a strategic visit to Portugal and Austria, aiming to foster stronger ties and promote collaboration in the high-technology manufacturing sector. This visit, led by Engineer Mohammed bin Abdullah al-Janini, the Director General of Manufacturing Localization and Increasing Local Content, was part of Saudi Arabia’s broader mission to boost industrial capabilities and stimulate innovation in the Kingdom.
In Portugal, the delegation engaged in productive discussions with key governmental and private-sector organizations, including the Portuguese Trade and Investment Agency and the Arab-Portuguese Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Central to these discussions was the shared goal of advancing the high-tech manufacturing landscape in Saudi Arabia. Both parties emphasized the importance of exchanging expertise and knowledge, with a focus on building a dynamic, technology-driven industrial environment. The Saudi delegation also visited prominent Portuguese manufacturing facilities, highlighting the Unicorn Factory incubator. This incubator is renowned for supporting tech-driven startups and fostering entrepreneurship within the technology sector, showcasing Portugal's cutting-edge role in the high-tech ecosystem.
During their stop in Austria, the delegation visited the headquarters of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), where they were given an in-depth overview of Saudi Arabia’s efforts to advance its industrial environment. This visit also served as a platform to discuss the Kingdom’s upcoming role as host of the Multilateral Industrial Policy Forum 2024 (MIPF), which will take place in Riyadh later this month. The event is expected to bring together international policymakers, industry leaders, and experts to discuss the future of industrial policy and innovation.
The visits to Portugal and Austria reflect the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources’ ongoing efforts to strengthen international partnerships, support the localization of advanced technologies, and position Saudi Arabia as a regional leader in high-tech manufacturing. These initiatives align with Saudi Arabia's broader vision to cultivate a competitive and innovation-driven industrial economy.