Deputy Minister of Industry for Planning and Development Explores Strengthening Collaboration with the UN for Industrial Development
On Sunday, Dr. Abdullah bin Ali Al-Ahmari, the Assistant Minister of Industry and Mineral Resources for Planning and Development, visited the headquarters of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in Vienna, Austria. His visit aimed to discuss strengthening cooperation and strategic partnerships between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and UNIDO, particularly in the areas of industrial policy development, innovation stimulation, and the adoption of advancements associated with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, most notably artificial intelligence.
During his visit, Dr. Al-Ahmari held a series of meetings with senior officials from UNIDO, where they explored various avenues for enhancing collaborative efforts in building human and institutional capacities within the industrial sector. The discussions also reviewed initiatives geared towards fostering sustainable industrial development, highlighting the new “ScaleX” program as a significant focus.
The meetings additionally involved updates on preparations for the 21st session of the UNIDO General Conference, which is set to occur in Riyadh later this year. Participants emphasized the importance of statistical data in measuring the performance of the industrial sector, reflecting a commitment to evidence-based decision-making.
Dr. Al-Ahmari and his accompanying delegation participated in workshops organized by UNIDO, which aimed to boost digital transformation within the industrial sector and encourage industrial innovation. These workshops provided an opportunity to leverage the expertise and resources of UNIDO in these crucial areas. Significant attention was given to the Kingdom’s “Factories of the Future” initiative, aimed at transitioning traditional manufacturing sites into smart facilities. The delegation also showcased the achievements of the Center of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in mining and industry.
This visit signifies an ongoing commitment to collaboration between Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources and UNIDO. It highlights the Kingdom’s strategic efforts to forge economic partnerships on an international scale, as part of its agenda to establish itself as a leading industrial hub in the region.
Through these initiatives, Saudi Arabia aims to harness the potential of modern technologies and innovative practices, ensuring the industrial sector is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the future while supporting sustainable development objectives. The engagement with UNIDO underscores a broader vision for the Kingdom, aligning with its aspirations to diversify the economy and enhance its global competitive standing.
The discussions at UNIDO are part of a larger framework aimed at enhancing Saudi Arabia’s industrial landscape. By focusing on capacity-building and sustainable practices, the Kingdom positions itself to navigate the complexities of industrial transformation effectively. Furthermore, these strategic partnerships are crucial for sharing knowledge, best practices, and technological advancements, which can lead to more robust policy frameworks and industrial strategies.
As the Kingdom prepares to host significant international conferences, the cooperation with UNIDO not only facilitates knowledge exchange but also promotes Saudi Arabia as an emerging leader in industrial innovation. The collaborative efforts with institutions like UNIDO are crucial for realizing the nation’s Vision 2030 goals, which include increasing the contribution of the industrial sector to GDP and creating job opportunities for its citizens.
In summary, Dr. Al-Ahmari’s visit to UNIDO highlights a proactive approach to industrial development through international collaboration, laying the groundwork for a future where Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of global industrial advancements. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic diversification, essential elements for achieving long-term growth and stability within the Kingdom’s industrial sector.
