Riyadh — World Economic Forum (WEF) President Borge Brende took part in an official visit to Saudi Arabia to explore opportunities for enhanced cooperation between Saudi Arabia and the WEF.

During the visit, Brende discussed regional and global economic development and areas of common interest with representatives of the government, public and private sectors. He also toured the historic At-T-Life district.

The WEF President’s visit was attended by a high-level delegation led by Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan, following the Kingdom’s successful participation in the 2023 World Economic Forum Annual Meeting held in January.

Delegates focused on bridging global divides and promoting short-term stability while driving long-term transformation.

At the annual meeting, the Kingdom, represented by the King Abdulaziz City of Science and Technology (KACST), signed a letter of intent with the WEF to establish a new accelerator program to boost innovation in Saudi Arabia.

The Saudi delegation also emphasized Saudi Arabia’s role as a pioneer partner in the Global Collaboration Village, which aims to leverage the Metaverse to serve the global community.

The Ministry of Economic Planning, in collaboration with UpLink, WEF’s open innovation platform, aims to crowdsource innovative solutions for food security in countries affected by low rainfall, drought and desertification. announced the launch of the Dry Climate Food Ecosystem Challenge.

The Ministry of Economic Planning also joined the WEF’s Jobs Consortium. The WEF’s Jobs Consortium is a coalition of CEOs, international organizations, ministers and other leaders aimed at promoting a better future of work for all by creating jobs and enabling job transitions. is. — Spa