I found it very encouraging that the Davos Forum in Saudi Arabia engaged in discussions and proposed solutions that directly addressed the multifaceted challenges confronting our region. These deliberations extended beyond economic considerations and included security concerns. I believe that we can’t have one without the other.
When we examine security through economic and political lenses, we’re essentially analysing a complex interplay of factors. These impact the region’s stability across economic, political and social dimensions.
As we are well aware, security issues stemming from regional conflicts adversely affect the region’s economy and investment climate. It is imperative that we make concerted efforts to address these intertwined challenges. This platform was underscored by the discussions at the Davos Forum. A collaborative approach is essential for fostering comprehensive and sustainable stability in the region.
I’ve been following the news surrounding this event, which was notable for its distinguished attendees, including heads of state, political and business leaders, as well as more than a thousand senior officials, international experts and academic institutions across 92 countries. This convergence created an international platform conducive to dialogue and collaborative efforts.
Davos in Saudi Arabia has clearly established itself as a vital platform for global co-operation in confronting challenges facing humanity and addresses the resulting economic implications.
The forum aims to support collaboration across borders and encourage the mobilisation of global resources to combat rising food prices around the world. Historically, we know, that this single factor could well prove to be a flashpoint both economically and socially.
The forum plays a crucial role in nurturing a sense of collective purpose, creating partnerships among governments, international organisations, civil society and the private sector.
The sessions of this prestigious forum hold immense significance for businessmen, politicians and economists. This year’s theme, ‘Global Collaboration, Growth and Energy for Development’, stresses the wide array of pressing topics needed to tackle current economic and geopolitical challenges.
Discussions at Davos in Saudi Arabia revolved around promoting new partnerships and addressing issues such as inflation, interest rates, supply chains and vaccine distribution. These reflect its commitment to nurturing collaboration and finding solutions for global issues.
The forum has yielded significant outcomes, particularly since it was held during the ongoing conflict in Gaza, which cast a shadow over the event’s proceedings. Participants raised concerns about the conflict’s potential repercussions on the global economy and emphasised the importance of de-escalation in the protracted and bloody conflict, which has persisted for nearly seven months.
Among the notable outcomes of the forum were the signing of numerous agreements and strategic partnerships between countries, companies and international organisations, with a substantial portion benefiting Arab and Gulf countries.
While these recommendations are not legally binding on nations, they serve as an important reference point and source of inspiration for many countries and organisations. They stem from comprehensive and extensive studies, based on in-depth research and analysis of global problems and challenges. Moreover, they draw upon the wealth of accumulated knowledge and experience of the forum’s attendees who come from diverse fields.
This reinforces the Gulf countries’ roles, particularly Saudi Arabia, in providing fertile ground for robust international dialogue on a wide range of topics crucial to humanity, while transcending religious, ethnic and cultural differences. Through hosting this forum, Saudi Arabia is solidifying its position as a hub for gathering, innovation, and the exchange of ideas while drawing leaders, thinkers and investors from across the globe.
Bahrain’s participation in the forum was notable. The delegation engaged in bilateral meetings on the sidelines to bolster co-operation in development fields for the benefit of the economy, the nation and its citizens. Bahrain reaffirmed its steadfast historical stance on the Palestinian cause, advocating for a just and comprehensive peace.
We must also highlight the visionary leadership of His Majesty King Hamad who has been at the forefront of championing the essential principles of coexistence and the embracing of human diversity. His unwavering commitment to fostering respect and tolerance among all individuals reflects not only his profound wisdom but also his dedication to promoting enduring peace and stability globally.