Saudi Arabia enacts sweeping reforms, emphasizes international cooperation

Minister of Interior Prince Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Naif led the Saudi Arabian delegation at the International Conference on Development and Migration in Rome, representing Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman.

The conference, chaired by Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, witnessed the participation of numerous heads of states, government officials, foreign affairs ministers from the Mediterranean region and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), along with prominent European and international dignitaries.

In his address on behalf of the Crown Prince, Interior Minister Prince Abdulaziz conveyed the Kingdom’s appreciation to Prime Minister Meloni for hosting the conference, which aims to foster international collaboration in tackling pressing issues like irregular migration, human trafficking, and climate change. The minister underlined Saudi Arabia’s commitment to comprehensive and ongoing reforms, in line with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 that places human welfare at its core.

“The Kingdom, under the leadership of King Salman and the Crown Prince, is carrying out comprehensive and ongoing reforms within the framework of implementing the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which made the human being its main pillar,” the minister stated. He emphasized the Kingdom’s dedication to upholding human rights norms and driving sustainable development, asserting its unwavering support for international cooperation in addressing common challenges.

Prince Abdulaziz also highlighted specific initiatives undertaken by Saudi Arabia to promote human rights, labor regulations, and labor rights. Notably, the Kingdom launched the Saudi Green and Middle East Green initiatives, demonstrating its commitment to combatting climate change and supporting the United Nations’ efforts in this regard.

Addressing humanitarian and relief efforts, the Prince showcased the substantial contributions made by the King Salman Humanitarian Aid and Relief Center (KSrelief). He stated that the Kingdom had implemented 30 projects, exceeding $130 million in cost, to support refugees and migrants. Additionally, Saudi Arabia had provided humanitarian aid surpassing $410 million to Ukraine. The Prince revealed further directives from King Salman and the Crown Prince to extend $100 million in humanitarian aid and organize a campaign in support of the Sudanese people, who are grappling with a severe humanitarian crisis causing significant displacement in the country and its neighboring regions.

Prince Abdulaziz called upon the international community to stand in solidarity and cooperation to address the complex issues of irregular migration, exploitation, and smuggling crimes, while confronting cross-border organized crime networks. The Kingdom appreciated the efforts of individuals and organizations striving for global stability and security.

The Saudi Arabian delegation at the conference comprised esteemed representatives, including Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Eng. Waleed El-Khereiji, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior Dr. Hisham Al-Faleh, Director General of Passports and Acting Undersecretary of the Ministry of Interior for Civil Status Lt. Gen. Sulaiman Al-Yahya, and Undersecretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs Dr. Abdulrahman Al-Rassi, along with delegates from the Ministries of Interior and Foreign Affairs and KSrelief.

The comprehensive reforms and commitment to international cooperation demonstrated by Saudi Arabia at the conference underscore the nation’s dedication to fostering sustainable development, protecting human rights, and addressing global challenges collaboratively.