British delegation in Riyadh for Saudi-UK economic conference

Agreements expected to be signed in education and training, tourism and property development

More than 400 delegates from the UK are in Riyadh for the opening on Tuesday of a major conference to enhance economic relations between Saudi Arabia and Britain.

The event aims to boost cooperation in sectors such as tourism, culture, education, health, sports, investment, trade and financial services. Agreements are expected to be signed in education and training, tourism and property development.

“Over the next two days, senior leaders from both our kingdoms will forge partnerships that span our economies, from cultural institutions to cuttingedge technologies,” the British

Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Neil Crompton, told Arab News. “These partnerships build on existing bonds in the fields of security and energy. The UK is committed to playing its part in the transformational Vision 2030.”

The ambassador said the embassy would host a British delegation comprising representatives from 400 companies.

“I am looking forward to meeting athletes, artists, celebrities, and entrepreneurs from both our kingdoms,” he said. “I would like to extend my thanks to our partners in the Saudi government for cooperating with us on this joint project.” The conference will host 800 participants from the public and private sectors in both countries. It is part of the Saudi-British Strategic Partnership Council, co-chaired by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, whose deputy Oliver Dowden will represent the UK. The conference was “an important opportunity to build partnerships between the business sectors of both countries, keeping pace with the future, innovation and creativity,” Dowden said.

“It also allows British companies to familiarize themselves with relevant business regulations, incentives, and advantages for conducting business in Saudi Arabia.”