RIYADH, Saudi Arabia
In a session presided over by the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, the Saudi Cabinet convened today at Irqah Palace to discuss significant national and international matters. Among the notable updates were insights into a phone call between His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud, Crown Prince, Prime Minister, and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the session, the Cabinet was briefed on the historical and strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and India. The leaders discussed regional and international developments, solidifying the commitment to strong diplomatic ties. Following this, the Cabinet delved into the recent accomplishments of joint committees formed by Saudi Arabia and various countries. Memoranda of understanding were signed, aiming to enhance cooperation across diverse fields and foster shared interests.
Minister of Media Salman bin Yousef Al-Dosari, in a statement to the Saudi Press Agency, highlighted the Cabinet's commendation for the progress achieved by the Saudi-Japanese Manar initiative. This initiative focuses on cooperation in the field of clean energy, potentially serving as a global model for countries aiming to achieve carbon neutrality.
On the domestic front, the Cabinet celebrated the inauguration of the fourth year of the eighth session of the Shura Council. This milestone reflects a year of accomplishments, demonstrating the Kingdom's commitment to securing a prosperous life for its citizens, advancing comprehensive development, and solidifying its global leadership and competitiveness.
Additionally, the Cabinet extended its appreciation for the extension of the Citizen Account Program, coupled with additional support until the end of 2024. This move exemplifies the leadership's dedication to citizens' well-being, alleviating financial burdens, especially in times of economic uncertainty.
Among the crucial decisions and approvals made during the session are as follows:
Formation of the Board of Trustees of the Green Initiative Foundation, chaired by His Royal Highness the Crown Prince and Prime Minister.
Approval of a cooperation agreement to combat crime between Saudi Arabia and the Republic of Albania.
Authorization for discussions and signing of a memorandum of understanding for cooperation in smart agriculture with representatives of the Korean Ministry of Agriculture, Food, and Rural Affairs.
Approval of a model memorandum of understanding in the municipal and housing sectors with counterparts in several countries.
Approval of a memorandum of understanding for cooperation to promote direct investment between Saudi Arabia and Türkiye.
Approval of an Investment Framework Cooperation Program (FCP) between the Ministry of Investment of Saudi Arabia and the National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of India (Invest India).
Authorization for discussions and signing of a draft memorandum of understanding in the field of nuclear safety and radiation protection with the Supreme Council for Environment of the Kingdom of Bahrain.
Authorization for the signing of a draft memorandum of understanding with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) regarding establishing a trust fund for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Approval of an agreement in the field of air transport services between Saudi Arabia and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
Authorization for discussions and signing of a draft memorandum of understanding in the field of visual, audio, and print media with the Media Commission of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Authorization for discussions and signing of a draft memorandum of understanding concerning cooperation in securities and future contracts with the China Securities Regulatory Commission.
Authorization for the signing of the Makkah Al Mukarramah Convention of the Member States of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation on Anti-Corruption Law Enforcement Cooperation.
Approval of a memorandum of understanding between the General Department of Financial Investigation at the Presidency of the State Security and the Financial Investigations Unit of the Hellenic Anti-Money Laundering Commission regarding cooperation in exchanging financial investigation related to money laundering and financing terrorism.
These decisions underscore the Kingdom's commitment to fostering international cooperation, economic development, and ensuring the well-being of its citizens. The Cabinet's deliberations reflect the unwavering dedication to maintaining strong diplomatic ties while actively participating in global initiatives for mutual benefit and progress.
