RIYADH: Beijing will host the China-Saudi Investment Conference on Tuesday on the sidelines of a visit by Investment Minister Khalid Al-Falih, the Saudi Press Agency reported on Saturday.

The conference aims to enhance the strategic partnership between the two countries in investment, trade and the economy, and to support China’s Belt and Road Initiative to connect Asia with Africa and Europe.

More than 700 attendees are expected, including senior officials, CEOs, investors and entrepreneurs.

They will review and discuss investment opportunities and initiatives aimed at fostering increased cooperation between the two countries.

The conference agenda includes dialogue sessions covering topics such as clean energy, finance, investment, mining, metals, tourism, entertainment, food security, agriculture, logistics services, shipping, supply chains, the digital economy, artificial intelligence, modern manufacturing industries, and advanced technology through workshops.

Al-Falih will also visit several Chinese cities to meet with business leaders. Technical teams from his ministry will conduct workshops and field visits to explore cooperation opportunities, with participation expected from representatives in both the government and private sectors.

During the recent Asia Future Investment Initiative Priority Summit in Hong Kong, Al-Falih took part in a symposium where he emphasized the Middle East’s pivotal role in fostering prosperity among Southern countries.
He stressed the significance of energy and digital transformation as tools for achieving development.

Diplomatic ties between the two countries span over 30 years, with China currently Saudi Arabia’s largest trading partner. Bilateral trade and investment have grown significantly in recent years.