Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: The Saudi-French Investment Forum, which took place in Riyadh on the 3rd of December, marked an important milestone in bilateral relations between the two sides.
Held in parallel with the state visit of French President Emmanuel Macron, the event brought together officials, policymakers, and business leaders from both nations, aiming to align their national visions for a prosperous future.
During his speech at the Forum, Khaled Al-Falih, Saudi Minister of Investment welcomed French stakeholders, emphasizing the strong ties between the two countries. Al-Falih pointed out the enduring economic partnership, the breadth of sectors covered, and the presence of French companies in Saudi Arabia.
The Minister asserted that Saudi Arabia, the Gulf Cooperation Council’s fastest-growing economy, recorded 3 billion euros in French investment in 2023, with France being the Kingdom’s second-largest foreign investor.
Al-Falih lauded Saudi Arabia to be hosting close to 500 leading French companies, around 30 of these companies have established their regional headquarters here in Riyadh.
In addition, French expertise continues to play a significant role in Saudi Arabia’s development, from Riyadh Metro to the innovative tram systems in AlUla.
Notably, the Forum hosted six panels, featuring 50 keynote speakers, and facilitated several bilateral meetings. The themes tackled in this event included net-zero policies, urbanization, technology, entertainment, and fostering innovation.
